Working in partnership with CYRIC IOT, a leading IoT solutions provider, the sensors are being deployed at critical sites
Shropshire Council is using the latest in wireless technology to help monitor gullies and reduce the risk of flash flooding.
The River Severn Partnership Advanced Wireless Innovation Region (RSPAWIR) is funding the trial of an innovative remote gully monitoring project aimed at transforming the way local drainage networks are managed.
This £15,000 initiative is using advanced wireless technology at seven sites county-wide to enhance flood risk management by providing automated notifications of the gullies’ capacity.
It is anticipated the project will improve flood management systems by providing real-time data to enhance the ability to prevent localised flash flooding; reduce the number of manual surveys that are required and offer the potential for wider adoption across other regions, contributing to the overall resilience of local infrastructure.
The trial will allow:
- Real-time monitoring: Deployment of 15 advanced radar gully sensors.
- Integration with existing systems: Seamless integration with local work ticketing systems enabling automated notifications to drain clearance teams.
- Enhanced efficiency: Reduction in unnecessary manual surveys, allowing teams to focus on high-risk areas and improve response times.
David Vasmer, Shropshire Council cabinet member with responsibility for highways and the environment, said:-
“This project is a great example of how smart technology can help us tackle the growing challenge of keeping our county’s gullies clear and reduce the issues of flash flooding during periods of heavy rain.
“Instead of relying only on manual checks, we’re using wireless sensors to keep an eye on water and silt levels in real time. The data these sensors collect will automatically alert our teams when a drain needs attention, helping us respond faster and more efficiently.”
Working in partnership with CYRIC IOT, a leading IoT solutions provider, the sensors are being deployed at critical sites in Bridgnorth, Much Wenlock, Pipe Gate, West Felton, Llanyblodwel and Lee Brockhurst.
Cherie Whiteman, for the Much Wenlock Flood Action Group, added:-
“We welcome this trial and look forward to seeing how the technology works in practice at one of the key flooding hot spots. In Much Wenlock, clear drains are critical to reducing the town’s flooding risk, and we need all the help we can get.”
Dan Thomas, Shropshire Councillor for Much Wenlock, where the trial was officially launched, said:-
“These new sensors are an excellent addition to flood prevention in Much Wenlock. Due to the topography, Much Wenlock will always be at risk, but these measures, along with others that have been and are being taken, can help reduce these occurrences.
“I’m delighted that the River Severn Partnership has invested in Much Wenlock.”
