100 tonnes of debris cleared to prevent Norfolk floods

A huge community effort in Attleborough has been under way to protect against floodwaters 12 months after more than 130 homes were affected by Storm Babet's torrential rain.

But despite the major work, people who still rebuilding their lives remain anxious of what may come this winter.

Part of the stream that broke its banks behind Ferguson Way (Image: Owen Sennitt)

The Norfolk Strategic Flood Alliance (NSFA) - a multiagency group responsible for flooding in Norfolk - has helped coordinate the cleanup operation in Attleborough

One of the key issues that caused the widespread floods in the northern part of the town and the neighbouring village of Besthorpe was streams, ditches and culverts that had become blocked with debris, causing a huge deluge of water to swamp properties and businesses.

READ MORE: Victims of 'scandalous failure' blast slow support following devastating floods

A culvert in Attleborough being cleared (Image: NCC)

Henry Cator, chairman of the NSFA, said: “Last winter Attleborough saw just how disruptive high levels of rainfall can be, and I’m proud of all of our partners who have stepped up this summer to make sure the area is better prepared for any further flooding this year."

A culvert in Attleborough is being cleared (Image: NCC)

 The culvert clearance works have cost £35,000 and are part of a wider £100,000 upgrade of drainage works around Besthorpe Stream.

This also includes the installation of a new trash screen, which will make it easier for people to access the stream and clear debris. 

READ MORE: Britain's most flooded road to be focus of new trial

Inside the culvert after the debris was cleared (Image: NCC)

While it is hoped the clearance effort will help prevent a repeat of last year, there is widespread concern that flooding could be worse this year.

This is due to groundwater levels remaining high following a wet spring and summer.

100 tonnes of debris was cleared from streams and ditches in Attleborough (Image: NCC)

Lynn Shortt, who lives with her partner Hans in Mill Lane has been flooded four times and has recently returned back home one year after being flooded by Storm Babet.

They are pleased to see that action has finally been taken, which follows years of them complaining about the risk of blocked culverts near their home.

But they remain anxious at what may lie ahead.

"We are delighted at the work that has been done and are in a much better position going into this winter. 

Lynn and Hans Shortt survey flood damage following the Storm Babet floods in 2023 (Image: Owen Sennitt)

"But we will remain at risk if there is extraordinary rainfall. We have lived with this fear for many years and it is not something that will ever go away.

"Until we move to a new home up a hill, it will always stay with us. You cannot just switch it off."

People in Attleborough were evacuated from their homes following flooding in October 2023 (Image: Newsquest)

This week, representatives of the NSFA met to discuss their preparations for this winter.

People have been urged to check the ditches and streams that run by their homes to ensure they are clear and flowing freely.

James Bensly, Norfolk County Council cabinet member for environment, said: "This was a big job. 

"But we know we’re likely to see more flooding this year and, as winters become warmer and wetter, into the future as well."

A drone image of the flooding that hit Attleborough homes last October (Image: Stuart Sharpin)

George Freeman, MP for Mid Norfolk, still wants to see more done to build up flood resilience in the area.

He said: "This is an important step on the road to ensuring we confine these major flooding events to the past. The multi-agency approach is delivering progress, but there is still much more that needs to be done."

'BE PREPARED'

Norfolk County Council has issued the following advice for people affected by flooding:

• Flooding can happen anytime, anywhere
• You can report flooding via www.norfolk.gov.uk/flooding or our One Number on 0344 800 8013
• You can prepare for flooding in advance by making your home more resilient: visit www.norfolk.gov.uk/flooding for information and tips on how to prepare
• Sign up for flood warnings at www.gov.uk/sign-up-for-flood-warnings
• If life is in danger, call 999