Deal MP, Natalie Elphicke, has secured a Flood Action Taskforce for Deal. The taskforce will address longstanding sewage issues in the town – particularly those in Albert Road.
The taskforce will report jointly to Mrs Elphicke and Ian McAulay, Chief Executive of Southern Water. It will be supported by Dover District Council, Kent County Council and Water Regulator OfWat.
Southern Water has pledged to support the taskforce with £500,000 in resources and supporting research work. Dover District Council and Kent County Council are also providing officer support and technical expertise.
For years many parts of Deal have been beset by flooding. Residents of Albert Road along with Mrs Elphicke have long campaigned for action to tackle the problem. The announcement follows the MP frequently raising the matter in Parliament, with Ministers, as well as OFWAT.
Natalie Elphicke MP said: “For too long residents in Deal have suffered from flooding – especially in Albert Road. The aim of this taskforce is to address these problems and find solutions. Getting everyone round the table is the best way to do that.
“I would like to thank all those involved for the resources they are putting into the taskforce. Our plan is to report back to the residents of Deal in six months.”
Ian McAulay, Southern Water CEO said: “Southern Water is committed to the highest possible standards of customer service and environmental protection. To deal with the challenge of climate change, in particular flooding, means managing water from all sources more effectively and needs innovative solutions.
“That’s why we are backing this taskforce with significant resources and a commitment to partnership working.”
Cllr Trevor Bond said: “Albert Road residents have been campaigning to stop the flooding in their area for many years. This is really positive step forward. I hope the actions from this taskforce will be able to bring an end to flooding misery once and for all.”
Roger Walton, Strategic Director (Operations & Commercial) at Dover District Council said: “The setting up of this taskforce is very welcome news as it is a significant step towards providing a permanent technical solution which will eliminate the risk of further incidents of flooding continuing to blight the lives of local residents.”