Persistent flooding continues to cause disruption and safety concerns in the picturesque town of Wantage. Manor Road has been particularly affected, sparking urgent requests for intervention from the local council.
“Flooding happens every year and it got very serious in 2020, but it started again in October of last year and has not stopped since,” stated Colin Campbell, a long-time resident.
Unsettling Landscapes and Safety Concerns
Colin, who has lived in Wantage for seven years, has documented the rising levels of localised flooding. These recurring incidents not only inconvenience residents but also pose risks to transport and pedestrian safety.
“In January, February and March, the water was completely across the road, and cars had to go through the flood, spraying water everywhere—which then freezes,” Colin explained. He further noted, “One of my biggest concerns is the footpath near the road. Earlier this year, it was just a sheet of ice, making it unsafe for anyone to walk.”
Colin attributes this ongoing issue to blocked drains, which he hopes will be addressed by the local council. “The cause seems to be a manhole, and every manhole after that one for a quarter of a mile down is totally blocked. I assume that all the pipework between them is silted up, so unless the council clears it, the problem isn’t going away,” Colin reported.
Escalating Flood Challenges
The flooding extends beyond Manor Road, impacting other areas such as the B4494 road. On April 2, severe floodwaters caused a lorry to get stuck. Local resident Kacie Grace recounted her partner’s distress while driving amidst the hazardous conditions.
“He drove down as all the barriers were in place at the other end, which has been the issue for weeks. Cars would speed past, causing the water to cover the windscreen completely, forcing him into the verges,” Kacie mentioned.
Seeking Solutions from the Authorities
Responding to these incidents, a council spokesperson noted, “England has just experienced an exceptionally wet winter, particularly in the south. As a result, groundwater levels are very high.” However, the spokesperson also assured the community that the council remains committed to addressing the flooding, underscoring the importance of local residents reporting such issues for targeted action.
While reassurances have been made, the underlying unease among Wantage residents remains palpable. Recurring floods are about more than water damage; they create threats to safety and peace of mind. As residents of Wantage continue to face these challenges, they remain vigilant, hoping for timely resolutions from authorities.
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