The Hythe Taskforce has recommitted itself to resolving long-standing flooding issues in Colchester's Hythe area, with the lead having passed from Will Quince MP to Cllr David King, Leader of Colchester City Council.
Cllr King’s leadership was welcomed at a meeting on 8 February, which brought together local councillors, Mr Quince, representatives from Anglian Water, the University of Essex, Essex County Council, the Environment Agency, and other stakeholders.
Cllr King emphasised the need for collaboration and partnership despite financial challenges and unclear responsibility. The Taskforce recognised the growing number of flooding incidents and their unacceptable impact on residents, visitors, and businesses.
The Taskforce noted progress towards:
- Intelligent signage: Real-time flood warnings to inform residents and businesses.
- An improved quayside non-return valve system: To reduce the occasional incidences of tidal water entering the drainage system from the River Colne and surcharging on to Haven Road.
- Investigating solutions to reduce frequent flooding on Haven Road caused by tide-locked culverted Bourne Stream outfall and storm rainfall events.
Cllr Lee Scordis, Deputy Chair of the Taskforce, added: “I am glad to see us making progress on this long-running issue. While there is a still a lot of work to do going forward, we are now heading in the right direction.”
Upcoming meetings will focus on further studies and potential solutions for short- and long-term flood relief. The Taskforce will also break out into smaller collaborations focusing on different issues between the meetings.
Page last reviewed: 26 February 2024