£150k Dilton Marsh scheme to reduce risk of flooding

A new flood alleviation scheme, which will significantly reduce the flood risk to properties in Petticoat Lane and Lansdowne Close, Dilton Marsh, is nearing completion.

The work, which is costing around £150,000 and is being carried out by Wiltshire Council, will see 150m of new storm drain installed.

Some residents in Petticoat Lane and Lansdowne Close have been suffering from flooded gardens and outhouses for a number of years. Residents are fully behind the work which involves digging up some of their gardens, drives and footways.

Cllr Jonathon Seed, Wiltshire Council cabinet member responsible for flood management said, “I am delighted we have been able to work with residents to help rectify this longstanding issue.

“I would encourage any local communities to work with their local councillor and local area board to help tackle issues such as this as the results can be very positive.”

Jerry Wickham, Wiltshire Councillor, who was instrumental in creating the flood scheme said, “This is a great example of  what can be achieved when communities work closely with the council. I’m delighted this work is being carried out as I know it will make such a big difference should we face some difficult weather.”

There is still financial support for Wiltshire residents and businesses who suffered flooding last winter.

As a result of requests from councils, including Wiltshire Council, the eligibility period for certain schemes covers the entire 2013/14 financial year.

The package of support comes from the Department of Communities and Local Government, the Department for Business Innovation and Skills, and the Department for the Environment Food and Rural Affairs.

Around 500 homes were flooded in Wiltshire last winter.

The schemes being extended are:

• Council Tax Relief Scheme, supporting councils to provide council tax rebates to residents whose homes were flooded.

• Business Rates Relief Scheme, supporting councils to provide business rates rebates to businesses whose premises were flooded.

• Severe Weather Recovery Scheme (communities’ element) to support local authorities with the costs associated with impacts on local communities.

• Repair and Renew: which provides grants of up to £5,000 for flooded homeowners and businesses to improve the resilience of their properties; and

• Business Support Scheme, providing hardship funding to businesses affected by the floods.

For further details on how claims can be made people can visit www.wiltshire.gov.uk/floodreliefsupport or call 0300 4560100.