Catherine McKinnell, MP for Newcastle North, is raising the concerns of Fawdon residents who believe that the current severe weather could cause a repeat of floods which have been blighting the area over recent years – notably in 2000, 2005 and 2008.

Catherine said:

“I have been working with local residents in Fawdon and the surrounding area who have suffered damage and severe distress over the last decade or so, due to localised flooding. They are now very concerned that when the recent heavy snow eventually melts it may cause these problems to re-occur due to inadequate drainage systems being unable to cope with the substantial amount of extra water. These concerns are compounded by the recent decision to withdraw pumps that had been provided by Northumbrian Water to help the area cope with flooding problems.

“I have been in regular discussions on this issue with Newcastle City Council, Northumbrian Water, the Highways Agency and the Environment Agency and I acknowledge that Northumbrian Water has made significant investment in improving the area’s sewer network.

“However, I am asking all of these organisations to reconsider all possible support as a matter of urgency in light of the current situation. I want to know what the City Council has done in terms of its Strategic Flood Risk Assessment for the area, what measures it is actively putting in place with other agencies to minimise the risk of future flooding, and what early warning system can be put in place for my constituents. This area of my constituency must be recognised by the relevant authorities as being at risk.”