EXPERTS will be delivering the outcome of a major consultation designed to reduce the future risk of flooding in north Reading and lower Caversham.

The Environment Agency (EA) is inviting the community to attend Caversham Baptist Church on Thursday, December 6 to see the results of the study, which was conducted over the summer.

It was forecasted earlier this year by the EA that a new alleviation project in Caversham could be necessary if the banks of the River Thames suddenly burst.

The project team will be available between 2.30pm and 7.30pm to listen to residents and talk about their investigation into the area.

Councillor Tony Page, deputy leader of Reading Borough Council, said: “Reading is fortunate in that it has escaped the worst of flooding in recent years, but that is not to say we will be so lucky in the future.

"I would urge as many people as possible to try and make the time to drop into the session to meet the EA’s project team.”

North Reading and lower Caversham have flooded many times over the years and there are several hundred homes and businesses at risk of flooding.

The most significant floods were experienced in 1947, an event which is still within the memory of some residents.

More recently, in 2012 and 2014, homes and businesses in low lying areas of Caversham flooded.

In 2003 many houses were surrounded by floodwater and a number of roads were closed to vehicles, some for as long as 5 days.

Joe Cuthbertson Environment Agency Flood Risk Manager, said “We are really pleased to be holding this drop-in to talk with residents further after the first round of consultation on the different options to reduce flood risk in north Reading and lower Caversham.

"If you want to find out more and have your say then please come along and share your views with us.”

Residents unable to attend the drop-in session can see the consultation report here.