Eastern Yar Flood Alert As River Restoration Project Set To Bring New Resilience

The Environment Agency has updated a flood alert for the Eastern Yar, warning that flooding is possible from Whitwell to Bembridge following recent heavy rainfall.

Around 22mm of rain fell across the area on Wednesday 21 January, causing river levels to rise.

Low-lying land, roads, cycle paths and footpaths close to the river could be affected, including Golf Links Road and Moreton Common Road. Ditches around Fort Holiday Park may also struggle to drain while levels remain high.

Only isolated showers are expected over the next few days, and river levels in Sandown are forecast to begin reducing by around 10am on Saturday 24 January.

However, further heavy rain is expected on Tuesday 27 January, which could cause levels to rise again.

The Environment Agency continues to monitor rainfall and river levels and is operating the Bembridge sluices to manage flows.

Residents are urged to take care and avoid walking, cycling or driving through flood water, as just 30 centimetres of fast-flowing water is enough to move a car. The flood alert will be reviewed by 11am on Saturday 24 January or sooner if conditions change.

While flooding poses a short-term risk, there is long-term good news for the Eastern Yar valley.

The Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust has completed a two-year Eastern Yar River Restoration Project, reconnecting the river with its natural floodplain and restoring rare wetland habitats.

Floodplains act as natural sponges, absorbing excess water during heavy rain and reducing the risk of downstream flooding. The restoration work has re-profiled riverbanks, created swales and grips, and installed small bunds to hold water.

The floodplain can now store an estimated 155 million litres of water—the equivalent of 62 Olympic sized swimming pools.

Jamie Marsh, Director of Land Management at the Trust, said:

"Restoring the river’s natural function will reduce the intensity of downstream flooding and create thriving wetland habitats.

"This is only the beginning—the valley will continue to flourish, and wildlife is already starting to return."

The project has improved conditions for species including snipe, lapwing, teal, little egret, kingfisher, dragonflies, amphibians and pollinating insects, while fen plants such as marsh cinquefoil, yellow flag iris and hemp agrimony are recolonising areas previously dried out.

The restoration has been delivered in partnership with Wessex Rivers Trust, Isle of Wight Council and the Environment Agency, and funded through Natural England’s Countryside Stewardship Capital scheme, showing how collaboration can restore landscapes for both wildlife and people.