Homes at risk of flooding

THOUSANDS of homes in the area are at risk of flooding, according to a new council report.

More than 100 flooding hotspots in Rotherham, including many in Aughton, Aston, Laughton Common and Swallownest, could be in line for flood management work after being identified in Rotherham Council’s preliminary flood risk assessment.

The report found that more than 8,500 residential properties in Rotherham as being potentially at risk from surface water flooding, compared with less than 300 properties at risk of flooding from rivers.

The assessment was carried out in accordance with new Government legislation, which requires the council to carry out a preliminary flood risk assessment looking at the local sources of flood risk, such as surface water run-off, groundwater and ordinary watercourses.

Producing the report involved collecting information on both past flood, including the flash flooding that hit Aston, Swallownest, Aughton, Todwick and Laughton Common in June 2009 and also potential future ones, assembling it and using it to identify areas which are at risk.

As a result, a total of 106 areas have been identified as priorities in subsequent flood risk management planning by the authority. Over the next six years it will have to prepare flood risk maps and plans, asset data register and local flood risk strategies.

The report has been submitted to the Environment Agency and will be sent to Defra for approval before becoming the final preliminary flood risk assessment for Rotherham.

It is available to view at www.rotherham.gov.uk/info/200039/emergencies/2179/preliminary_flood_risk_assessment and can be accessed from the Emergency Planning page at www.rotherham.gov.uk/info/200039/emergencies.