Flooding

FLOODING

Historical Background

Ferring has developed particularly in the last 100 years and the need for drainage has changed greatly in that time. Originally ditches were used for rainwater drainage but these have been largely filled in and except in a very few places, no longer operate. Road drainage is now generally via gullies connected to soakaways of uncertain vintage and efficacy. Most soakaways are inaccessible for maintenance, they may be plastic crates or rubble filled holes. A limited number of soakaways are chambers with manhole covers and these can be maintained. 

Causes of Flooding

  • Increased rainfall (climate change)
  • Root ingress from residents’ trees and plants
  • Ageing drainage system
  • Water from resident properties, not just roads
  • Impermeable drives / paving being installed (may be against building regulations)
  • Residents’ contractors pouring concrete and other rubble down the drains
  • In-fill developments without additional drainage
  • Water table reaching saturation point

Actions taken by FRSA to minimise Flooding 

  • Regular gully sucking to reduce soakaways silting up
  • Emptying of soakaways with chamber access
  • Clearing of blocked gullies
  • Replacement of existing soakaways if fully silted up

Reporting a Flooding

If you have a concern with flooding, please report this by clicking on the link  – https://www.frsa.uk/reporting-an-issue the FRSA will review each issue on a case-by-case basis and assist where possible, please be mindful and consider the following as not all flooding is the responsibility of the FRSA:

  • Is the flooding a result of road run-off or other factors?
  • Is the gully on your property or on the FRSA adopted road?
  • Is it a serious immediate issue (e.g. flooding of your buildings)?
  • How long does the flood take to dissipate (hours, days)?
  • Is it too deep for necessary pedestrian access?
  • Have you taken all necessary measures to try and prevent flooding?

Ferring does not have a mains drainage system so as residents we need to work with and accept the system we current have, as our roads are unadopted by WSCC and this is not likely to ever change!