Disruption expected as works begin to end flooding chaos on Derby road

Major roadworks are taking place on a busy Derby road to help alleviate serious flooding issues in the months and years to come. “Essential” drainage works have started today (Monday, November 4) on Markeaton Lane with the hope that long-term problems can be addressed, especially during the winter and when there are adverse weather conditions.

It is understood the work, being led by Derby City Council, could take a few weeks to complete and warnings of traffic disruption have been issued during the course of the works. A completion date has been set for Friday, November 22 but this could change depending on the speed of the project.

It is understood the works will not affect visitors to Markeaton Park and Markeaton Crematorium over the next few weeks as "access will be maintained for residents and businesses at all times". But traffic disruption is expected on surrounding roads.

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Markeaton Lane is one of Derby's most vulnerable roads for flooding and is often closed following storms. The road connects the Allestree suburb with Mackworth and vice-versa.

Prior to works starting it is understood letters were sent to residents and businesses by city council bosses explaining the reasoning behind the works. But according to Allestree councillor and Derby Mayor Ged Potter, some residents have complained about there being a lack of information prior to the works starting.

Councillors in Allestree say work is also taking place to rebuild a damaged stone-made parapet on one of the road's "sharp bends "which has been "knocked down by drivers".

Overall the works will alleviate flooding issues on the road “which often results in full closures during storm events”. It is hoped the works will improve connectivity for residents, businesses, and visitors going forward, and is an "essential upgrade to the city's infrastructure".

Councillors in Mackworth posted: "We are expecting disruptions whilst we carry out these works, but will be working closely with our traffic management supplier to ensure this is kept to a minimum."

Allestree councillor Ged Potter said: "The work is needed. Markeaton Lane gets regualrly flooded. They are also going to rebuild a parapet which has been knocked down because of several cars going through it in recent years.

A spokesperson for Derby City Council said: “Works are being undertaken on Markeaton Lane at the entrance to Scarsdale Vets to introduce additional road drainage which will allow flood water to drain more effectively during heavy rainfall and following a river flood event. The location sits at a low point where water naturally gathers, so this location is a priority to ensure safety and availability of the highway.

“These works commence on Monday 4th November 2024 and will take up to three weeks to complete. During this time there will be a traffic signal controlled lane closure to protect the workforce and road users.

“There is also a road closure for bridge parapet renewal works on The Markeaton Brook bridge taking place this week (4th-8th November 2024) for which there is a road closure in place. The drainage works have been timed to coincide with this to take advantage of significantly reduced traffic flows across this location for the first week of works.”

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