A MAJOR breakthrough in efforts to tackle flooding in the Hythe has been made as senior figures believe they may have found the root of the problem.
Members of Hythe Taskforce met on Friday morning after a major breakthrough discovered two historic ponds dating back to the 11th century could be the cause of the issue in Haven Road, in Hythe.
It is understood water spilling from Bourne Pond, off Bourne Road, through to Distillery Pond, off Distillery Lane, could be the action causing the Hythe’s flooding woes.
Plans now drawn up to help tackle the flooding also involve signage warning drivers when there is a high tide and calling on the fire brigade to help pump excess water away.
An on-site investigation will now take place next week with Essex Highways to explore the options which can be taken to solve the problem once and for all.
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Colchester councillor Darius Laws, who was involved in Friday morning’s meeting, said some “really positive” steps have been taken.
He said: “The suggestion is the water on Haven Road is freshwater and not seawater and the source is believed to be Bourne Pond and Distillery Pond.
“That water wants to get into the sea, but, as we all know, over the past 200 years humans have put concrete in the way of that.
“Having Road being lower than surrounding roads such as King Edward Quay exacerbates the problem and further investigation work needs to be done, but knowing the water is coming from the top of the hill is a really, really positive step.
“It’s a really tough one and is clearly a long-term battle but everyone is around the table looking to achieve the same objective.”
Colchester’s MP Will Quince, who founded Hythe Taskforce, has now said solutions and funding are the next steps to discuss among campaigners.
“I have arranged a meeting on-site with Essex Highways next week, together with councillors and attendees on the task force, to explore options, both for short—term and long-term mitigation solutions,” added Mr Quince.
“This includes the potential installation of road signage and mitigations from the source of the flooding.”
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