Report issued into Sutton-on-Trent flooding

Flooding that devastated homes and businesses in Sutton-on-Trent this summer has been described as absolutely cataclysmic.

Thirty-two homes and business were hit by flooding after torrential rain in June.

Mr Bruce Laughton, who represents the Muskham and Farnsfield ward on Nottinghamshire County Council for the Conservatives, said the response from the authorities was fantastic.

He added the community affected is “very pleased” with the actions to prevent a repeat of the incident, which has included carrying out a full investigation into the cause and pledging to fix the problem.

Mr Laughton visited the affected houses in the immediate aftermath, and described the impact the flooding had.

Speaking as a report on the flooding was issued, he said: “Unless you have been flooded, you have no idea of the impact it has, both on you and your property.

“This flooding was absolutely cataclysmic for those families.

“I was delighted with the response which has come from some of the agencies involved, particularly Nottinghamshire County Council.

“The individuals working for the council in the community have engaged with the people who have been flooded, and that is so important.

“My community is pleased. They are really pleased with what is happening.

“Substantial progress has been made and we are in a far better place.

“The community recognises that we can’t totally protect them from flooding – it’s impossible – but they do realise that the authorities are doing everything they can to help.”

The report, formally noted yesterday, found the flooding was exacerbated by an overflowing drain, which struggled to deal with the huge amount of water.

Mr John Cottee, chairman of the committee that published the report, said: “These were freak weather events which were unforeseen, but had devastating effects on dozens of properties in the village.

“A detailed hydraulic analysis of the Bulham Lane drain in the area is being carried out, with results expected by the end of the year.

“This will give us a better understand of the severity of events on June 2, and help identify potential ways of reducing the risk of future flooding.

“We are also looking at the effectiveness of our highway drainage in the area and will be carrying out remedial works where necessary.