Pumping station submerged by flooding to be moved

Work to relocate a pumping station to higher ground is under way after a major road was closed for three weeks when it was submerged by flood water.

The A421 was closed at the Marston Moretaine interchange in Bedfordshire in September after a month's worth of rain fell in less than 48 hours.

National Highways cleared 72 million litres of water, equivalent to about 30 Olympic-sized swimming pools, and the road fully reopened in October.

Simon Amor, from the roads organisation, said the work would help prevent further emergency closures on the road, which connects the A1 and M1, south of Bedford.

"Relocating the pumping station to higher ground and the installation of a new pump will help prevent emergency road closures on the A421, benefitting road users and the local community," said Mr Amor, who is head of scheme delivery.

"To minimise disruption to road users the works will be carried out on weekday nights, usually between 8pm and 6am."

He said "overnight lane and slip road closures will be in place, and drivers are advised to check their route in advance and allow additional time to complete their journeys".

He said the work was expected to be completed by the summer, and thanked drivers for their patience and understanding while it was being carried out.

As work to relocate the pumping station progresses, details of future closures and diversions will be available on the National Highways website.

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