Neile River flood defenses rebound after weather delays and hit key milestones

The flood protection project along the Neile River in Neuwallmoden is now back on track after early setbacks. Heavy rain in May had caused delays, but progress has resumed with key milestones already achieved. The first phase of widening the river has been finished, and work on the berms is underway. Crews have completed the initial widening of the Neile. They are now shaping the berms in the section visible from the road. These redesigned berms will allow the river more space to expand during high water, reducing flood risks.

An underground power cable was relocated to enable the final earthworks along a 296-metre stretch of the eastern bank. Excavated soil from this work is being temporarily stored at a staging area for the future Steimker Bach retention basin. The last expert assessments for this basin are currently being finalised, with plans to submit a formal amendment request to the district before the summer break.

After the berms are finished, the team will stabilise the topsoil using erosion-control mats and sow a wildflower-grass seed mix. Later, in November, tree and shrub planting will mark the project’s final step.

Elsewhere, alternative low-glare lighting for the lampposts along the Neile has been tested and ordered. Retrofitting of four lamps is planned soon. The final designs for a bat-friendly visual barrier are also expected this summer. The project remains on schedule despite earlier weather-related delays. The redesigned riverbanks and retention basin will improve flood resilience in the area. Final touches, including lighting upgrades and ecological enhancements, are set to follow in the coming months.