CAMPAIGNERS are voicing more concerns over 214 homes to be built on a flood plain after it was revealed key data may not have been sent to Environment Agency bosses before the plan was approved.
After a Freedom of Information request from a resident requested access to flooding data sent to the Environment Agency, Southend Council responded to say it is “not routinely passed on”.
Peter Lovett, vice-chairman of Shoebury Residents’ Association, fears this means the agency “can’t be aware” of the extent of flooding problems in the area.
Major plans for the Shoebury Garrison, near Barge Pier Road, will see 214 homes, a new health centre, and a retail development built, but the site has been covered in water this week after flooding.
Mr Lovett and other association members met with the Environment Agency last year where he shared 40 photos of surface water issues on the site.
He said: “They can’t be aware. They were quite embarrassed and shocked when I sent them the 40 pictures.
“I find it quite disgusting that we are in this position. This is not a political thing. Conservatives, Labour and Lib Dems have all been in it and have done nothing about it.”
The plans, by Garrison Developments LLP, were approved by the council in December.
The Environment Agency did not object to the plans but insisted that the new homes must have substantial flood defences.
The council’s FOI response said: “We do not hold 20 years of flood data, any historic data would be held by the Essex Record Office and we do not routinely pass flood data to the EA. However, we do work together to improve flood resilience though modelling and scheme implementation.”
Pamela Dewey, 73, of Boundary Way, also raised serious concerns. She said: “Campfield Road and Lower Ness Road flood frequently, the water spilling into the River Shoe where it can soak away in the surrounding fields.
“The new Lidl store adjacent to the proposed development currently has surface water on its carpark despite efforts to divert the water.”
Flashback - the Garrison in 2000
Carole Mulroney, councillor responsible for the environment and planning, said that while flooding data going back 20 years is not held, the council investigates “flood incidents” and results are on the website,.
She said: “Whilst we are not legally obliged to share details of these with the Environment Agency, and vice versa, we meet regularly with them to discuss any flooding issues, data and local knowledge. However, this is not on a formal basis.
“I understand resident concerns, but I would stress that any decisions made follow the correct legal processes.”
Ms Mulroney insisted the Garrison application had enough information.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel