Constant flooding is affecting our health, say villagers in Digby, Lincolnshire
DISTRAUGHT residents in a Lincolnshire village say their health is suffering because of constant floods.
One street in Digby, between Lincoln and Sleaford, has been hit more than 10 times since the problem arose in April.
Sandbags surround a string of homes in North Street while trenches have been built to ease water levels in back gardens.
Worried residents say they fear the consequences every time it rains.
bcs ltd
Contact: 01522 705130
Valid until: Saturday, August 31 2013
Jean Dench, 64, has had firefighters pump water out of her home twice in recent months.
She said: "We've just had enough now.
"My health is suffering as a result because of the stress of it.
"My blood pressure has got so high and I struggle to sleep at all at night - especially when it's raining.
"The most concerning thing about it is the floods are getting worse and becoming more and more frequent.
"It has a terrible impact on my life.
"We just want expert advice and for our lives to return to normal."
The latest flash flood happened on Christmas Eve when much of North Street was covered in water - up to two-feet deep in places.
Other residents insist storm drains in the street are not working.
Meanwhile at the rear of properties, water powers down a slope from a nearby field and batters into the houses.
Sheila Whittle, 48, and her husband Michael, 65, had to cancel plans to visit family in Devon over Christmas because of the flooding.
She said: "It is alarming to think it takes less than 90 minutes for the street to flood.
"In June, the whole village flooded.
"We have asked Lincolnshire County Council to come out and have a look but as far as we know they are yet to do so.
"The water pours down the street like a river.
"It is scary and we are often lying awake at night wondering what to do."
Husband Michael added: "We just want someone to make us a priority - and for someone to take responsibility.
"The problem is preventable and we just want better communication with authorities."
Residents aim to secure an emergency meeting with their local councillor Erin Bauer, Parish Council, North Kesteven District Council and Lincolnshire County Council before the end of January.
Comments
by thenewsreader
Friday, January 04 2013, 9:01AM
“Flooding has knock many peoples lives sideways. I think these guys are right, they have requested assistance from the council and have received non. Expert advice is something that is missing in the country as we are not used to it.
Do farmers need to manage drains on the land like we used to years ago, do new build properties need to have water attenuation systems in place to help store water and move it slowly out.
Will we need to stop using hose pipes this year, with the increased population how many reservoirs have been installed to hold water for domestic use. Not that this helps the folk of Digby or any other village or town which has the same issue right now.
The government bodies need to show support and assistance, offer advice and ensure the drains are cleared and working effectively. Maybe the farmer could assist by looking at the local field drains, dykes and such like.
Simple answers like "don't buy a house in Digby" shows a simple level of intelligence...”
by M_C_Donald
Thursday, January 03 2013, 9:15AM
“Henri
The problem in the Netherlands is different from the problem facing Digby; Digby being 20 metres above sealevel.”
by THECARPER
Thursday, January 03 2013, 7:29AM
“the answer is simple... dont buy a house in digby”
by HenriLevison
Wednesday, January 02 2013, 8:07PM
“Floodings are very expensive and disturbing an normal way of life for those living in the flooded area's. I feel very sorry for them. I don't understand it though. Why are floodings reoccurring ? Solutions exist ! Just take a look at the Netherlands. 55% of their country is below sea level and the weather isn't very different. They were here A few hundred years ago. Get in contact with Rijkswaterstaat and let them find a solution once again.
Rgds.
Henri”