Andrew reports:
I met with the Environment Agency recently for an update on the works being taken since the floods of 2020 in Snaith and East Cowick. I have just mailed out a full update to residents on this.
Basically, we are still waiting for the modelling work to complete which is irritating but is vital. It has taken longer due to the length of the waterways being modelled but is close. This is vital to secure any longer term funding for future works.
There is nothing unusual about this, funding for works often takes years as design work and evidence of impact can take a while to develop. The works currently taking place to stabilise the riverbank at Airmyn actually started being planned many many years ago.
However, that does not mean nothing is happening and I am continuing to push hard for residents. Here are some other changes which are taking place.
- Pumping Infrastructure
We all remember the huge external pumping operation that had to be brought in during and after the floods to support the other pumps that exist in the area.
The EA inform me that to ensure better future resilience, 3 locations in the Lower Aire catchment, including Snaith Ings, have been identified to provide more permanent pumping infrastructure which can be accessed if needed.
These include arrangements for hard-standings for mobile pumps and infrastructure to allow pumps to run more effectively and to ensure faster deployment if required. The infrastructure is permanent, but the pumps would be deployed if and when needed.
- Snaith Ings Outfall
Ensuring that the Lower Aire washlands, such as Snaith Ings, can drain more effectively ensures that there is more capacity in the washlands to deal with high water levels. The Environment Agency’s post flood investigations highlighted that Snaith Ings would benefit from additional drainage and an improved permanent outfall structure to supplement the existing operations.
The EA have now drafted their business case for this and expect these improvements to be in place for next winter. This should ensure better drainage of the Ings.
Residents can rest assured that in my remaining year or so as our MP, I will continue to prioritise this issue and fight to get whatever changes are required to ensure we are better protected into the future.
