Innovative new floating islands have been installed as part of a £6 million flood reduction joint project between Northumbrian Water, North Tyneside Council and the Environment Agency to increase flood protection to more than 3,500 homes in Killingworth and Long Benton.

Floating eco-systems, designed and made by specialist contractor Biomatrix Water, have been installed on Killingworth Lake for the final phase of the Killingworth and Longbenton flood reduction scheme.

Pupils from West Moor Primary School joined a planting event to establish the floating islands with plants and shrubs.

Fixed in the centre of the lake, the islands will help to keep the lake clear, with their plant roots sucking up nutrients and cleansing the water. They will also to give plants and animals a place to live, both above and below the water.

This is the first time Northumbrian Water has used floating eco-systems as part of a project, to help improve water quality and biodiversity.

Northumbrian Water’s Project Manager, Lynn Preston, said:

“Work is well underway on the third and final phase of this flood reduction project and it’s been really exciting to see it all take shape, especially with the installation of these fantastic islands.

Nicola Hyslop, lead officer for the project from the Environment Agency added:

"We are well underway with the final phase of this scheme and have worked closely with our partners to ensure the scheme reduces flood risk, while enhancing the environment.

The works, which are being carried out by Northumbrian Water’s supply partners Esh-Stantec, are due for completion in early summer.