Upgrading Flood Prevention System in Birmingham

Commuters traveling into Birmingham City Centre can now rely on a more robust and efficient flood prevention system, thanks to a technology upgrade at the Birchfield Underpass. Previously prone to flooding, the underpass is now better equipped to withstand heavy rainfall, safeguarding motorists and reducing the risk of traffic disruptions.

The Challenge

The Birchfield Underpass, which carries the A34 under Perry Barr, has long been a flood-prone area, causing significant disruptions during periods of heavy rain. In 2014, the site experienced a major flooding incident when a pump power failure left motorists trapped in rush hour traffic. In response, Birmingham City Council’s Highways partner, Amey, sought a reliable solution to prevent future flooding incidents and ensure the site’s stormwater management system was both efficient and resilient.

The Solution

Amey commissioned T-T to carry out a comprehensive site survey to assess the existing pumps and control panel. Following the inspection, T-T recommended a complete overhaul of the system by replacing the surface-mounted pumps with submersible contractor’s pumps. This solution would improve efficiency, robustness, and operational reliability. Additionally, a new control panel was proposed to allow for remote monitoring of the pumps, providing Amey with real-time data to manage the system effectively.

To ensure a smooth transition and ongoing maintenance, Amey engineers received specialized training from T-T, covering the operation of the new pumps and the remote monitoring equipment. This training enabled the team to confidently manage the upgraded system, ensuring optimal performance during heavy rainfall events.

Key Features of the Upgraded System:

Submersible Contractor’s Pumps: More efficient and durable, these pumps are designed to handle high volumes of water, even in challenging conditions.
New Control Panel: Facilitates remote monitoring, allowing for real-time performance tracking and rapid response to any potential issues.
Training and Support: Amey engineers received thorough training to operate and maintain the new system, ensuring long-term effectiveness.
Robust and Reliable: The new system is engineered to withstand periods of heavy rain and reduce the likelihood of future pump failures.

In May 2018, the new flood prevention system was tested during torrential downpours that affected the city. Despite the high volume of rainfall over a short period of time, the upgraded system performed flawlessly, preventing flooding in the Birchfield Underpass and ensuring uninterrupted traffic flow.

Ongoing Partnership

The successful installation of the upgraded system marked a significant improvement in flood management for Birmingham’s highways network. T-T continues to work closely with Amey, providing ongoing maintenance and support for the Birchfield Underpass as well as other pumping stations across the city. This collaborative approach ensures that the city’s infrastructure remains resilient in the face of adverse weather conditions.

The upgrade of the flood prevention system at the Birchfield Underpass is a prime example of how modern technology and expert solutions can significantly improve infrastructure resilience. By replacing outdated systems with more efficient and reliable equipment, T-T helped to ensure that Birmingham’s transport routes remain operational, even during periods of extreme weather. Amey’s proactive approach to maintenance and training ensures that the system will continue to serve the city effectively for years to come.

For more information about flood prevention solutions or to discuss your own project, please contact T-T’s expert team today.