AN investigation has been launched to see if part of the flood alleviation scheme in St Ives was breached during the recent wet spell.

The Environment Agency was notified in December of water getting into the Norris Museum’s gardens – and surrounding areas – through the flood defences and has sent engineers to investigate.

A spokesman said: “The flood gate is in place to ensure that water does not flood properties or the road. During November and December, a large amount of rain fell in St Ives. However, the flood defences were not overtopped – water did not flow over the top of the defences – during this time.

“There was also a substantial amount of surface water was captured by the flood defence, and was drained away as would be expected.

“Although the flood defences were not overtopped, we are aware that there was water on part of the museum’s gardens. We have already visited the site and are investigating to see if there are any improvements that can be made to the gates.”

A St Ives Town Council spokesman said the council had not been notified of any issues regarding the flood defences.