Owners of Bridgemead care home in Bath are proactively addressing increasing flood risks by investing approximately £1.4 million in upgraded flood defenses. Since taking over management in October 2024, the Pilgrims’ Friend Society has initiated significant improvements to safeguard the riverside property.
The planned enhancements include installing a wrap-around glass screen on the home’s lowest level and extending the existing flood defense wall. These upgrades come amid a rise in the frequency and severity of flooding events in Bath in recent years.
When Bridgemead first opened in 1992, its flood prevention measures met the standards of the time. However, advances in river modeling technology have revealed heightened flood challenges along the River Avon, necessitating a reassessment of protective strategies. The new defenses are designed to shield the care home from flooding events with a probability of up to 1 in 65 years.
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Hugh Lambourne, Director of Property Services at Pilgrims’ Friend Society, stated, “We are pleased to begin this vital work to enhance flood resilience at Bridgemead. Our commitment to delivering excellent care for older people includes ensuring our facilities remain safe and secure for many years ahead.”
Construction started in April 2025 and is expected to be completed by December 2025, strategically timed before the period when flood risk is typically highest.
Friederike Hamilton, Operations Manager at Pilgrims’ Friend Society, remarked, “Our priority is to minimize any disruption to residents during the works. Bridgemead plays a vital role in the Bath community, not only as a home to 32 residents but also through its Wednesday Day Club, which welcomes around eight older people weekly. These improvements will help us continue providing outstanding care and enriching lives.”