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Flood investigation launched in Flintshire following Storm Babet

Published: 01/11/2023

Repairs to Flintshire’s highways and drainage systems are expected to take several months to complete following Storm Babet.

The county experienced unprecedented, severe localised flooding on Friday, 20 October, with the sheer volume of water overwhelming Flintshire’s infrastructure and causing devastating damage to homes.

Highways and streetscene operations were temporarily suspended to assist the response and staff worked throughout the weekend to clear standing water, remove debris and support residents.

During this period, more than 20 roads were temporarily closed, more than 1,650 sandbags were delivered to those in need, 183 assets were cleared/jetted and several ditches and water courses were cleared.

A rest centre to support those evacuated from their homes was set up at County Hall in Mold and Council officers provided 8 individuals with hotel accommodation over the weekend.

Residents who have had to move out of their homes due to flood damage may be eligible for a Council Tax exemption. Exemptions are available for up to 6 or 12 months depending on the severity of the damage and the nature of the work required.

During this period, qualifying properties may qualify if the following conditions apply:

• You have had to vacate the property due to the flooding; and
• Significant damage has been caused to your property internally that requires works to make it habitable again.

The Council Tax service is available to provide advice and support to households who have been affected by the flooding and have questions regarding how this may affect their council tax payments. For further guidance please contact the Council Tax Team on 01352 704848 Option 1, or email local.taxation@flintshire.gov.uk

Cabinet member for Streetscene and Transportation, Councillor Dave Hughes, said: “I am incredibly proud of the efforts of those who came together to respond to Storm Babet. This was one of the most significant flooding events in Flintshire for many years and despite the amount of rain that fell in such a short amount of time, officers worked quickly to ensure the highways were safe and residents were supported.”

A flood investigation is now underway and is being led by specialist independent consultants, Waterco. Key areas affected by the floods will receive a letter asking residents to give as much information as possible about how it has impacted them.

This is an essential part of the assessment and will help to inform the investigation which will also include representations from key stakeholders including Welsh Water and Natural Resources Wales. This report will then be sent to Welsh Government to seek funding for schemes to improve flood resilience in Flintshire.