The Hythe Task Force met on 25 November to review progress on flood resilience measures and confirm next steps in tackling long-standing issues in the Hythe area. The multi-agency group continues to prioritise practical solutions to reduce flood risk and improve infrastructure resilience.
A key update came from Anglian Water, which confirmed that camera inspections and maintenance have been completed on key outfalls, including freeing two stuck flaps and repairing a break in the foul pipe near the old Harbour Masters house. Engineers have scoped the replacement of two problematic flaps with a new valve system, like a previous successful installation near the light ship. Work is scheduled to begin in January, with funding already allocated.
The Task Force also reviewed plans and funding for further flood mitigation, with a formal submission to the Environment Agency underway to unlock additional grants. The preferred options include installing pond level controls at Distillery Pond and Bourne Pond, estimated at £100,000 per site and covering five years of maintenance. Engagement with landowners and the National Trust is now in progress to enable implementation.
Additional updates included plans for a comprehensive CCTV survey in January to map drainage infrastructure and inform future interventions. Monitoring sensors will also be installed at strategic points to track water movement and evaluate performance over time.
Cllr David King, Chairman of the Hythe Task Force, said: “I am encouraged by the progress we are now making. These represent real steps forward in reducing flood risk for the Hythe community. My thanks to Anglian Water and all our partners for their commitment to this complex challenge. There is still much to do, but we are now moving in the right direction.”
The Task Force will continue to meet regularly to oversee delivery and maintain momentum. Further updates will be shared with the community as projects progress.
Page last reviewed: 28 November 2025