A valve helping to reduce floods in the Colchester Hythe area will arrive next month, council bosses said. 

The Hythe Task Force was founded by former MP Will Quince in 2021 to tackle the recurring issues of floods in Haven Road. 

Following a meeting on July 18, it has now been revealed that a vital valve to mitigate tidal water ingress has been ordered. 

The valve is expected to be delivered in early August and could be installed later in the month, depending on tide times and weather conditions. 

Members of the group raised concerns about outfall pipes, which have been increasing the flood risk due to being jammed open or broken. 

At the meeting, it was also discussed how to reduce the impact of surface water, with a focused on Blythe Pond, and different measures which could potentially help reduce surface water reaching Distillery Pond were presented. 

The task force also discussed improving the signage and road surfaces in the area to increase motorists’ safety in the area. 

Different options to fund the projects, and additional ones in the future, were discussed, as possible grants could be sourced from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. 

Chairman - Council leader David King took over as chairman of the Hythe Task Force from former MP Will QuinceChairman - Council leader David King took over as chairman of the Hythe Task Force from former MP Will Quince

Councillor David King, chairman of the Hythe Task Force, said: “I’m pleased we are now making progress on several fronts 

“I hope this will encourage the local community to bear with us. We accept this is a slow process, given technical challenges and so many partners.  

“We aim to show more progress, including promised road signage, as we head towards the autumn.  

“I am heartened that the long-awaited valve, so critical for reducing tidal water ingress is on its way, with installation targeted for late August.” 

A cash boost of £100,000 in 2023 was suggested to go towards a valve, as Colchester Council asked the Environment Agency for help to get involved around drainage system valves near the flood hotspot. 

The lack of progress had task force members, residents and businesses frustrated, as Essex County Council said it was “hoped experienced Anglian Water operatives will lead on installation” of the valve.