Engagement event in Exeter for communities hit by flash floods
Published: 27 September 2023
Communities impacted by the recent flash floods in Devon are being supported with a series of drop-in sessions over the coming weeks.
Initial investigations have found that more than 200 homes were flooded during the torrential rainfall on Sunday 17 September.
As part of the ongoing flood recovery efforts, Devon County Council, East Devon District Council, Exeter City Council, South Hams District Council, Teignbridge District Council and the Environment Agency are organising community engagement events.
For residents in Exeter, a drop-in session will be held at Matthews Hall in Topsham – Wednesday 4 October, 2pm-7pm.
The drop-in session will be an opportunity for residents to speak directly to teams involved in the flood recovery operation.
It will be able to provide information on the flooding in their community and to discuss flood resilience measures with staff from all of the authorities and agencies in attendance.
The following agencies will be in attendance at the drop-in session and can help with -
Devon County Council
Flood Team: Production of Flood Investigation Report, Property Flood Resilience, Ordinary Watercourse regulation, consideration of future flood improvements
Highways: maintenance and clearance of drainage systems and road surfaces
Exeter City Council
Housing issues
Waste collection and street cleaning
Advice on financial support that may be available
The Environment Agency
Flooding linked to main rivers or the sea
The flood warning service for flooding from main rivers and the sea
Flood risk assets on main rivers
Land use management, remedial works and longer-term management
Repair works and flood risk activity permitting requirements on Main Rivers
Councillor Phil Bialyk, Exeter City Council Leader, said: “As we are all aware, the threat of flooding is one that is a reality for many communities, and occurrences are unfortunately becoming more common.
“These drop-in events are a great way for residents to access the information they need and talk to a range of agencies about this issue, and I would urge residents who have any concerns to attend and find out what support and advice is on offer.”
Residents are being advised to check if their property is at risk of flood and find out if they are eligible to sign up for a free flood warning. Follow @EnvAgencySW on X (formerly Twitter) for the latest flood updates or visit check for flooding at https://www.gov.uk/check-flooding.