As Christmas approaches I know we are thinking more about our families and loved ones who are not able to join us at this time for one reason or another. I have a daughter who lives in the USA and we will not see her this time so our thoughts are with her. Closer to home I am sure you may be aware of someone who may be alone this Christmas so please if you can give them a helping hand.
Everyone will be aware that Windermere Road in Town has flooded several times in the last few years and each time homes and businesses are deeply affected. The strain on people affected is significant and the clean-up operations are becoming increasingly difficult. With each heavy rainfall that occurs the risk of flood increases and with the current forecast for significant rainfall in the next few months, the area needs a rapid response.
Our Flood and Highways teams have been working to assess what interventions can be immediately put in place to alleviate future flooding in this particular area. Together with our partners, EA and SLDC, they believe a measure of alleviation may be found and implemented as soon as possible. This will require various measures including placing cameras down culverts to target the issue, creating traffic ‘build-outs’ and diverting the water. A £20,000 fund will be set aside and held by County Council Local Committee for this work which will enable the urgent response.
The long term flood alleviation projects which include upstream works, alterations to the SLDC car park and extra culvert into the Ornamental Gardens were presented to residents at Multi-Agency meeting held on 1st November. This included representatives from the Environment Agency, County and District Councils plus the Forestry Commission. A follow up meeting in January next year will take place to keep residents up to date on progress.
I hope to see you all on Saturday 1st December at the Christmas tree lighting by the ornamental gardens in the Town. This is always a major event in our Town and I must thank all the committee members for all their hard work in making this such a success every year
Have a happy and enjoyable Christmas.
Bill Wearing Conservative County Councillor Grange Division.