June 2007 saw unprecedented rainfall in Rotherham and was recorded as the wettest month in Yorkshire since 1882.
In a comprehensive report to be tabled on 25 June, the Council sets out what work has been undertaken by officers and partners, such as the Environment Agency, to help prevent a repeat of last year’s floods.
Aside from the major works carried out at Ulley reservoir, measures include general clearance works within the River Whiston Brook; the cleansing of all road gullies affected by the floods; repairs to flood walls along the River Whiston Brook; the distribution of 2,500 free-of-charge ‘FloodSax’ to provide additional defences at Catcliffe; repairs to a damaged highway drain in Sheffield Lane; the cleansing of culverts under public highways the clearing of debris from Cramfit Brook; and the installation of a new culvert at Kepples field.
The Council has also contracted consultants to undertake a Strategic Flood Risk Assessment for the whole Borough. This will then be fed into the process of allocating land for development in the Local Development Framework.
Alan Matthews, Rotherham Borough Council’s Emergency and Safety Manager, said: “Following last summer’s floods, we are aware of those areas most vulnerable to flooding in the Borough and we will ensure that any new developments in the vicinity of these areas do not worsen the situation.
“This includes ensuring that any developments on brownfield sites will need to reduce the amount of run-off compared to the previous use of the site and making sure developments on Greenfield sites have a run-off of no more than that which exists.”
On the subject of flood defences, Mr Matthews added: “A new £200,000 anti-flood scheme is also hoped to be up and running before the end of the summer.
“This project – a partnership between ourselves, the Environment Agency and Yorkshire Water – would see a major pumping operation take place to reduce the risk to over 150 Catcliffe properties in the advent of a flood event.”
Continuing, Mr Matthews said: “With the first anniversary of the floods approaching it is only natural that some residents will feel anxious and maybe concerned that they could be at risk from similar flooding in future.
“I would like to take the opportunity to remind residents that such events are rare and that an enormous deal of work has taken place since last year to prevent a similar occurrence.
“However, anyone who wants to seek reassurance or advice concerning floods can look at our Emergency Planning Handbook. This can be found on our website or by calling 01709 823878."
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