Homes evacuated as flood waters strike again

HOMES were evacuated in Warrington last night as flood waters struck again in the Dallam area of town, as a Major Incident Standby was declared with an estimated 180 properties at risk.

During the night, council crews supported by police and fire crews attended properties around Sankey Brook and Dallam Brook to support with sandbags, though resources were “very stretched”.
For residents who couldn’t find alternative accommodation, a warm rest centre was established at Great Sankey Neighbourhood Hub.

A spokesperson for Warrington Borough Council said:”The decision to evacuate residents is not one we take lightly, but we do not want to risk households being breached with people still in their homes, particularly if there are elderly people or vulnerable residents or families.”

Hawleys Bridge

At 2:15am it was reported that water levels had dropped below their earlier peaks, and the Major Incident standby was stood down.
The council spokesperson added: “Some households have been affected by flooding and a number of sandbags have been distributed to properties at particular risk. We also continue to advise people to be vigilant of flood alerts and flood warnings.
“We are hopeful, however, that based on current intelligence, any further potential flooding will not be as severe as predicted. So, while you should please remain vigilant, no further action is currently required.
“Given the latest detail we have on predicted future water levels, the Council, Cheshire Police, and Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service are de-escalating our response.”
Earlier, a Major Incident Standby was declared with Warrington South MP Sarah Hall out in the community updating residents via social media.
Ms Hall said:” Some households have sadly been affected, and sandbags have been distributed to properties that continue to be at particular risk.
“The Council, Cheshire Police, and Cheshire Fire & Rescue will remain on standby overnight, with the tactical coordinating group monitoring closely.
“I know how worrying the risk of flooding is for families across Warrington.
” Tonight I met with the Chief Executive of Torus on site.
“I’ve been in regular contact with the Environment Agency, Emergency Services and Warrington Borough Council throughout the evening.
“Tomorrow I’ll be speaking with the Minister at the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, and continuing to work closely with local agencies to ensure residents are supported.
“Thank you to residents for being so responsive tonight, and to the emergency services teams and partners for their response.
Other areas of Warrington were also impacted by the flooding including Vauxhall Close at Penketh, where water was reported to be shin deep. Commercial and retail property off Europa Boulevard at Gemini Industrial Park was also at risk, along with properties on parts of Fairbourne close.
Areas at risk included Chepstow Close, Colwyn Close, properties on and around Higham Avenue, Tavlin Avenue, Hodgkinson Avenue, Marshall Avenue, Hawleys Lane and Mullen Close.
Other areas areas at risk included properties at and around Bollington Mill and Bollington Hall farm. Also at risk was property on Lymm Road adjacent to Agden Brook.