THE ENVIRONMENT Agency is updating its flood risk maps to show the risks of surface water flooding.
The maps already show flood risks from rivers, the sea and from reservoirs, however the updated maps and new surface water maps should raise awareness of flooding risks so people, communities, businesses and relevant agencies and authorities can take action to reduce the risk.
Thurrock Council has responsibility for leading on the management of the risk of surface water flooding – that is when heavy rain overwhelms drainage systems.
Working with partners like Anglian Water, the Environment Agency, Essex Fire and Rescue Service and highways agencies, the council is aiming to raise awareness of areas that are at risk and help people to be better prepared.
According to 2010 data, approximately 21,000 properties could be at risk of surface water flooding in Thurrock. Many of them will have owners who are unaware of the potential problem.
In January the council will be holding a consultation to find out people’s experiences of flooding and their views about potential options to reduce the impact of flooding in the future.
Sign up to receive an email update about the consultation at www.thurrock.gov.uk/account and to find out if your property is at risk of flooding and for information on how you can prepare for a flood go online to www.environment-agency.gov.uk
