Cheltenham Flood Alleviation Scheme

Staffordshire Red Class A Bricks

During exceptionally wet weather the River Chelt used to break its banks and cause damage to properties in Cheltenham.   Much of the section through the town centre was in culverts beneath shops and business premises. To resolve this situation a flood alleviation scheme was developed where there was a requirement for a strong, dense brick with a very low water absorption, to ensure that it was not damaged by water-born flotsam and be resistant to frost attack. For this reason a class A brick was chosen and it was considered that a Red smoothfaced brick with Staffordshire Blue detailing work would give the project an attractive appearance. Ketley Brick were specified as being the only company to meet the high physical characteristics required in both colours.