Date issued: 23 July 2024
The Hythe Task Force convened on 18 July to discuss significant advancements in flood defence measures and infrastructure improvements. The meeting, chaired by Cllr David King, Leader of Colchester City Council, reviewed previous actions, progress and next steps, to reduce flooding risks and impacts.
The Task Force heard an order has now been placed for a vital valve to mitigate tidal water ingress on Haven Road. The valve is expected to be delivered in early August, with installation targeted for late August, contingent on tide times and weather conditions. The final design will be influenced by the results of an ongoing diver and sewer survey, expected in the coming week.
Concerns were raised about outfall pipes, some of which are jammed open or broken, increasing flood risks on Haven Road. Fifteen valves discharging into the River Colne likely belong to Anglian Water, who undertook to review responsibility, condition and repair need.
Efforts to reduce the impact of surface water were discussed, particularly focusing on Blythe Pond. Potential measures to decrease surface waters before they reach Distillery Pond were presented. Cllr King emphasised the need for an actionable plan to slow water flow in environmentally friendly ways.
Members of the Task Force were also updated on the Fieldgate Quay project, outlining the progress of Phases 1 and 2, aimed at bolstering the structural integrity and safety of the area.
Other discussions included improving signage and road surfaces to enhance safety for road users in the area, and various funding opportunities were explored, including potential grants from DEFRA and other sources, to support ongoing and future projects.
“I’m pleased we are now making progress on several fronts,” said Cllr David King, Chair of the Hythe Task Force. “I hope this will encourage the local community to bear with us. We accept this is a slow process, given technical challenges and so many partners. We aim to show more progress, including promised road signage, as we head towards the autumn. I am heartened that the long-awaited valve, so critical for reducing tidal water ingress is on its way, with installation targeted for late August’.
The Hythe Task Force convened on 18 July to discuss significant advancements in flood defence measures and infrastructure improvements. The meeting, chaired by Cllr David King, Leader of Colchester City Council, reviewed previous actions, progress and next steps, to reduce flooding risks and impacts.
The Task Force heard an order has now been placed for a vital valve to mitigate tidal water ingress on Haven Road. The valve is expected to be delivered in early August, with installation targeted for late August, contingent on tide times and weather conditions. The final design will be influenced by the results of an ongoing diver and sewer survey, expected in the coming week.
Concerns were raised about outfall pipes, some of which are jammed open or broken, increasing flood risks on Haven Road. Fifteen valves discharging into the River Colne likely belong to Anglian Water, who undertook to review responsibility, condition and repair need.
Efforts to reduce the impact of surface water were discussed, particularly focusing on Blythe Pond. Potential measures to decrease surface waters before they reach Distillery Pond were presented. Cllr King emphasised the need for an actionable plan to slow water flow in environmentally friendly ways.
Members of the Task Force were also updated on the Fieldgate Quay project, outlining the progress of Phases 1 and 2, aimed at bolstering the structural integrity and safety of the area.
Other discussions included improving signage and road surfaces to enhance safety for road users in the area, and various funding opportunities were explored, including potential grants from DEFRA and other sources, to support ongoing and future projects.
“I’m pleased we are now making progress on several fronts,” said Cllr David King, Chair of the Hythe Task Force. “I hope this will encourage the local community to bear with us. We accept this is a slow process, given technical challenges and so many partners. We aim to show more progress, including promised road signage, as we head towards the autumn. I am heartened that the long-awaited valve, so critical for reducing tidal water ingress is on its way, with installation targeted for late August’.
Page last reviewed: 23 July 2024