Council Sets out Timeline to Learn from Northwich Floods

Cheshire West and Chester Council has today confirmed the timeline for reporting on the floods that have hit Northwich in recent times.

In response to the October 2019 floods in Northwich, the council initiated a review as to the causes of the flooding and measures that could be taken to reduce their future impact.

Following this investigation, it will formally report on these findings as planned, early this year, publishing the final report for consideration by the Council’s Cabinet on March 17 (10am).  Reviews will also now be initiated to identify any additional lessons to be learned from the most recent floods, in Northwich and across the borough. 

The Council has already, in November 2020 published an interim report with a set of recommendations in response to the issues identified in the October 2019 floods. A number of these have been implemented and helped in tackling the floods experienced in Northwich over the last week. 

A copy of the interim report can be found here: https://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/documents/Your-streets/northwich-section-19-interim-report.pdf 

Councillor Louise Gittins, Leader of the Council said: “We have been taking a number of steps in response to the floods, in line with the recommendations from the interim report. However, it is quite clear from the recent situation that more needs to be done.  We need additional investment in the systems that remove surface water from the town centre, alongside the investment that has already been made in flood defences. 

"We will be writing to  United Utilities, to ask what immediate contingency plans can be put in place and for them to support an urgent review of the drainage systems in the affected areas. We have also made the case to central government for investment to further protect communities in Northwich and across our borough.  

"We will also be working with the Environment Agency to hear the views of our local residents and businesses, to ensure that we learn from their experience, and protect our communities from the impact of climate change.” 

Pictured - Councillor Louise Gittins, Leader of the Council.