Coping with the floods in Winchester

Winchester City Council staff are working hard to minimise disruption caused to residents by the increasing number of flooding incidents across the district.

The main focus of problems is Hambledon, where temporary alternative arrangements for the collection of refuse have been put in place because waste collection vehicles cannot reach properties.

Three communal bin collection points have been set up around the village which can be used either for refuse or recycling and these are emptied daily.  Residents have been provided with refuse sacks which are collected on the normal collection day using smaller flat-bed trucks.  Residents have been informed of the temporary arrangements by letter.

In addition City Council staff worked closely with other agencies to make the sewer system operational in Hambledon.

The Streetcare Team has helped with the collection of waste from anyone who needs assistance and Neighbourhood Support Officers are delivering information to householders as required.

During the flooding officers have attended regular stakeholder meetings on site in Hambledon and continue to work with partners including Hampshire County Council, parish councils, Scottish and Southern Electricity and South West Water to maintain essential services.

The City Council is also alert to and managing the risk of flooding in Winchester city centre, monitoring the Durngate sluice and adjusting it to control water-levels.

Cllr Jan Warwick, Winchester City Council’s Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhoods and Environment, said: “Our thoughts are with all those who have been affected by the floods.  The City Council will continue to do all it can to minimise disruption and support local communities through this difficult time.”

Current flood warnings are on the Environment Agency website at www.environment-agency.gov.uk .  Winchester City Council can be contacted on 01962 840222.