#Floodwatch with BwD Council

Residents are being encouraged to prepare for any future potential flooding as part of a new project launched by Blackburn with Darwen Council. Called Flood Watch, the scheme aims to prepare residents and businesses for possible future floods and to help them mitigate against any potential damage to their properties. This follows on from major flash flooding events that hit the borough during Summer last year. 

The Council in partnership with Groundwork Pennine Lancashire bid for a share of a £5m pot funded by DEFRA to help communities combat the effects of flooding. The borough is most at risk of flooding when there is excess rainfall causing the rivers and drainage systems to be overwhelmed. Flooding can happen at any time of year, very quickly and with little or no warning. 

As part of Flood Watch, residents are being offered a free flood plan so they can minimise damage and make sure they know what to do and who to contact in the event of an emergency. It looks at essential issues such as vulnerable neighbours, keeping essential medicines dry in a flood and the safety of pets. The scheme will also help them form support groups who will work within their community to help reduce the impact of possible future floods. 

The Flood Watch team are currently out and about speaking with residents about flooding and ways they can be prepared. Councillor Maureen Bateson, Executive Member for Regeneration, said: “We understand the threat that flooding poses to many residents and businesses in the borough due to their location. “Though we can’t prevent flooding, we want residents to know ways which they can help themselves and those most vulnerable in their community should we ever see a repeat of last year”. 

If anyone sees a blocked drain, flooded gully or flash flooding, report it immediately by calling (01254) 58592, or for more information about Flood Watch call: (01254) 222128.