For those in Binstead that get a knock at the door by people in orange coats, it’s not cold calling it’s reps from Southern Water offering you a free water butt.
It’s all part of the multi-agency co-ordinated flood mitigation approach that is now moving forward in earnest, with the Isle of Wight Council, Southern Water and the Environment Agency all involved.
Other measures
The water butts on offer are the start of a roll out of measures in 2024 that will also include highway verges being turned into rain storage, individual property flood resilience measures such as flood boards and more resilient doors plus an innovative de-paving scheme.
Dore: 22,000 litres of water that won’t go into the system
The local ward member, Councillor Ian Dore, said,
“There are many elements to flood prevention in Binstead and this is just one of them.
“The water butt scheme was trialled recently, and the results are stunning. By bagging yourself a free water butt, you are saving 200 litres from hitting the surfaces in a heavy down pour. That in turn keeps it from going into the drainage system which, if the conditions are poor, can get overloaded.
“I will expand on the other elements of the scheme at a later date, but the teams are out on the ground as we speak. It’s colossal. At the time of writing, 110 homes have already taken up this offer so that’s 22,000 litres of water that won’t go into the system!“One of the major risks is drainage system overload. With heavy rain and high tides, that risk increases. If water can be held back via these slow-release systems, it will make a huge difference.
“I am hoping that as many in the community, will play their part in supporting others and accept the water butts that are offered. Along with the other elements that are coming, these big ole butts will play a massive part in the overall flood mitigation scheme.
“You’ve seen the pictures, you’ve seen the videos, maybe experienced the horrors yourself. Please please please, help your neighbour, help those that live down the hill, across the road, or round the way.“When you get the letter or the knock at the door, please say YES. In doing so, you of course get a free water butt but most importantly it will help prevent other members of our community from being flooded. This is one of the elements that we can all work together on, so please, take up that butt!”
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
Image: Harry (Southern Water), Ian Dore, Ian (Southern Water), James Brewer (IW Council)
