Flood group hopes to create drain wardens

11:57am Thursday 1st May 2008

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WINCHCOMBE residents could soon take the plunge by becoming drain wardens.

Each warden would be allocated certain Winchcombe drains to keep an eye on and would alert relevant authorities if their drains become blocked or overflow during flooding. They would not have to clear the drains themselves.

Recruiting volunteer wardens is among proposals published by the Flood Action Group, which Winchcombe Town Council formed following last summer's floods.

This group has two aims. Its first is to reduce the threat of flooding by studying the catchment area and considering using balancing ponds and revised river layouts. The second is to get the drainage system into first-class order so water can escape without causing flooding.

Group secretary Neil Mattinson revealed wardens would be allocated drains near where they live.

He said: "One of the problems that we have had is that the drainage system has not been monitored over the years.

"Culverts have been allowed to fill up with debris. Drains themselves have been allowed to fill up with rubbish.

"The authorities responsible are going to give us a programme of works to get the drainage system into tiptop condition.

"Drain wardens will keep an eye on the situation."

The group has made a presentation to Tewkesbury Borough Council, which, along with Gloucestershire County Council Highways Department, is devising plans to overhaul Winchcombe's drainage system.

This report says the flows of the rivers Beesmoor and Isbourne are impeded by the layout of channels and constructions like Corndean Lane Bridge and Castle Street's culvert and bridge.

A survey is being conducted to ascertain the practicality of modifying these areas to reduce flooding risk.

The group is holding discussions with the borough council regarding funding for such work.

The borough intends to improve the Isbourne's flow by clearing it during forthcoming months, before handing it back to its owners to maintain.