The term 'surface water' covers flooding directly from rainfall, but it also includes flooding caused from rainfall in other ways including groundwater flooding, rainfall runoff and ordinary watercourses.
Surface water flooding can occur when large amounts of rainfall cannot be absorbed into the ground, rivers or drains. When this happens, water will flow and accumulate on the ground, rather than beneath it. This type of flooding is typically localised and happens quickly after the rain has fallen, making it difficult to provide flood warnings to residents.
We are working closely with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water, with support from engineering consultants URS/Scott Wilson, to find better ways to manage local flood risk.
As part of the process, a South Essex Surface Water Management Plan is being produced for the administrative areas of Basildon Borough, Castle Point Borough and Rochford District.
The framework will help key local partners with responsibility for surface water and drainage to understand the causes of surface water flooding and agree the most cost-effective way of managing surface water flood risk in their areas.
Drop-in Sessions to discuss the Surface Water Management Plan
You may have received a flyer inviting you to drop-in sessions that have been arranged where you will be able to discuss the work that has been done and how it affects you. There will be representatives from the county council, your district council and the experts who created the Surface Water Management Plan.
| Benfleet |
Richmond Hall Richmond Hall,
High Road,
Benfleet,
SS7 5HA
01268 692444
|
Wednesday
11 April
5-8pm
|
|---|
| Basildon |
The Basildon Lower Academy
Timberlog Close
Basildon
Essex
SS14 1UX |
Thursday
12 April
5-8pm
|
|---|
| Billericay |
Hannakins Farm Community Centre
Rosebay Avenue
Billericay
Essex
CM12 0SY
01277 630851 |
Friday
13 April
5-8pm
|
|---|
| Rayleigh |
The Mill Arts and Events Centre
Bellingham Lane
Rayleigh
Essex
SS6 7ED
01268 778171 |
Monday
16 April
5-8pm
|
|---|
| Wickford |
Bromford School
Wickford
Essex
01268 471201
|
Tuesday
17 April
5-8pm
|
|---|
If you have any questions about the Surface Water Management Plan please see our FAQs, call 01245 430 469 or email flood.prevention@essex.gov.uk.
Implications for South Essex
The Surface Water Management Plan will help us identify areas in South Essex at risk from surface water flooding during heavy rainfall. These areas will be prioritised for detailed study and work.
This work may involve a number of solutions, ranging from long-term engineering projects to advising residents and businesses on how to protect their properties from flooding.