Councillor Michael Lilley (LibDem), the Isle of Wight councillor for the Ryde Appley and Elmfield Ward, is calling for questions to be answered over the response to flooding in Ryde last week.
In a letter to the Leader of the Isle of Wight council, Councillor Lilley stated that the failure resulted in significant damage to family homes, a supported living home, a local charity named Tidal Family Support, and other local businesses, particularly on West Hill Road and Rink Road.
Many residents, he reported, have been adversely affected, and are feeling devastated and distressed.
Key issues raised
Councillor Lilley raised a number of key points in his letter:
- Immediate Needs: A call for an urgent support package for the affected residents, businesses, and charities. This should include clear guidance, compensation, regular meetings and an active forum for communication.
- Residents’ Anxiety: Residents are in shock and have lost confidence in local agencies, especially the Environment Agency. They urgently require reassurance and practical assistance, as some lack insurance and are unable to relocate temporarily.
- Environment Agency and Flood Defences: There were clear issues with the flood defences, with Councillor Lilley stating the gates weren’t properly secured and adequate warnings weren’t given. He feel there were a lack of staff from the Environment Agency to address residents’ concerns.
- Agency Collaboration: Councillor Lilley says the response to the flooding showed a lack of coordinated effort between various agencies. Some assistance was provided, but communication gaps were evident, he added.
- Drainage Issues: Drains on West Hill and Rink Road were blocked, exacerbating the flooding. The responsibility for these drains is questioned.
- Sewage Overflow: Due to the flooding, properties were contaminated by foul water. There are environmental health concerns tied to the release of raw sewage, which also negatively impacted local beaches.
- Moratorium on Developments: Councillor Lilley suggests halting all large developments in the affected areas until proper infrastructure is in place. He emphasizes the need to recognize the realities of climate change and to ensure proper planning and development.
Invited to ward meeting
Councillor Lilley recognised that the leader, Councillor Phil Jordan, has already stated there will be an urgent review of the response, but also invited him and officers to attend a ward meeting scheduled for 2nd November 2023.
At the meeting they will be able to directly listen to the concerns and experiences of the affected residents. In his letter Councillor Lilley underscored the importance of quick and coordinated action, stressing that residents need immediate answers and support.
Read in full
You can read the letter in full, as well as a letter to the Environment Agency on Councillor Lilley’s website.
