A survey which was constructed last week for areas flooded by the latest tidal surge has now been completed, with approximately 45 commercial premises affected and 220 residential properties. Recovery operations today are entering a sixth day, with officers working hard to provide advice, guidance and support to residents, with street cleansing staff working eagerly to rid the highways from sludge and debris.

The free collection of large flood damaged item will continue to Saturday, for those areas affected, and where necessary, side waste which is placed beside wheelie bins will be removed to help tidy up premises and remove excess waste. Pumping operations are still working hard, with pumps working 24 hours a day, removing almost 5,000 gallons per hour, to remove all standing water from carriageways and fields in the Yokefleet and Blacktoft area.

Where required, gullies and street lightingare being inspected, and repairs being arranged where necessary. Engineers have also started to inspect any affected carriageways to check what repairs will be required. With the exception of Green Oak Lane, Moorfield Lane, and Saltmarshe, the majority of the highway network is reopened and ready to function as normal.

Director of environment and neighbourhood services, Nigel Leighton said: “We are very much aware that many of the residents suffering from the tidal flood are still trying to get things back to normal, and we are here to assist where we can.

 “I would like to thank our staff for their hard work and dedication in the face of challenging and rapidly changing conditions and also extend my gratitude to our residents for their kind words and support, which have been greatly received.”

The council have been receiving numerous requests from businesses and local resident regarding financial support that may be available and can confirm under the council’s local welfare assistance scheme, that assistance can be applied by providing support grants or emergency loans.