Experts investigating claims a key section of river in the Norfolk Broads has silted up and contributed to the widespread winter flooding are due to release their findings.

The 'Bure Hump', a little-known and otherwise nondescript stretch of the River Bure, has become the focal point of concern due to fears a lack of dredging of the waterway has meant rainwater is not flowing out into the sea.

It follows speculation that this pinch point caused problems further upstream in the Thurne Basin, where high water levels last winter left farmers swamped, homes backed up with sewage and boat firms struggling.

Boats travelling along the Lower BureBoats travelling along the Lower Bure (Image: Newsquest)

Following members of the public raising concerns at a public meeting in Hickling, the Environment Agency agreed to undertake a study of the crucial section of the river near Great Yarmouth. 

Experts have been using modelling data to probe whether more dredging is needed of the Lower Bure.

The work is now in the final stages and the results are expected in the coming weeks.

READ MORE: Officials already warning of Autumn flooding

Eastern Daily Press: Broads Authority dredging the River Bure in 2015Broads Authority dredging the River Bure in 2015 (Image: Broads Authority)

A spokeswoman for the Environment Agency said: “We are conducting modelling regarding dredging on the river Bure, and its effects on the tidal reaches of the rivers Bure, Ant and Thurne.

"This work is in the final stages of preparation and the final report is expected by the end of August.”

Eastern Daily Press: Sheep on the riverbank along the River BureSheep on the riverbank along the River Bure (Image: Denise Bradley)

Members of the boating community affected by the floods have speculated that a lack of dredging of the 'Bure Hump' could be causing problems upstream.

Henry Cator, chairman of the Norfolk Strategic Flood Alliance, has also raised concerns about northern rivers becoming shallower.

The Broads Authority says it has carried out its duties to dredge the river to a depth that meets its navigational requirements but it is keen to find out if deeper dredging is needed.

John Packman, chief executive, said: "We are working with the EA to see whether removal of mud from the lower Bure will have a positive effect on flooding.

"This is a top priority for us."