Good turn out for Saffron Walden community flood risk drop-in
Nearly 70 people attended a local event to find out about work being undertaken by the Environment Agency and the risks of flooding in Saffron Walden.
The event took place on Thursday 19 February 2015 at Saffron Walden Town Hall.
Environment Agency staff talked to local residents and businesses about work to clear debris and inspect the condition of the culvert (tunnel) which carries the River Slade under Saffron Walden town centre. The event was also hosted by representatives from Uttlesford District Council and Essex County Council.
Staff were on hand to answer questions about flood risk, the current works and to explain the rights and responsibilities of riparian landowners - people who own land next to, or over, a watercourse.
Liz Taylor, Flood Risk Advisor for the Environment Agency said:
We were really pleased that so many people came along to find out more about the work taking place. It was a great opportunity to talk to residents about how to prepare for floods and provide information about the flood warning service in Saffron Walden.
People can check to see if they are at risk of flooding by visiting https://www.gov.uk//flood or by calling Floodline on 0345 988 1188. The Floodline service is easy and free to sign up to. Floodline issues a message direct by telephone, mobile, email or SMS text message when flooding is likely.
The Environment Agency also has a new SMART phone App called Flood Alert which can be downloaded for free to phones or via Facebook.