Council working on ‘lessons learned’ review following Christmas flooding in Bedford

Bedford Borough Council is working on a review of the lessons learned from the recent flooding over Christmas.

The review was confirmed last night (Wednesday) following a question from the Liberal Democrats in a Full Council meeting.

Liberal Democrat Cllr Jon Abbott (Oakley Ward) told the meeting about the impact of the flooding in his ward in the villages of Pavenham and Oakley, and in the neighbouring village of Clapham.

He paid tribute to the efforts of council officers, the emergency services, the Environment Agency and volunteers in protecting property, and asked whether a review would be conducted to ensure all possible lessons are learnt to aid local flood prevention.

In response, it was confirmed that as the Lead Local Flood Authority, Bedford Borough Council will produce a flood investigation report in partnership with other agencies.

The council has already met with the Environment Agency and partnership work is ongoing as part of the process.

Cllr Abbott said: “The anxiety and disruption caused by the flooding was a particularly cruel blow for residents and businesses at Christmas time at the end of a difficult year for everyone.

"I’m thankful for the tremendous efforts by council staff, members of the emergency services, volunteers and householders themselves in response to the flooding.

“I’m pleased that review work is already underway, and I look forward to the results.

"It is vital that any lessons that can be learnt from this incident are used to ensure we are doing all we can in terms of both flood prevention and preparation for future incidents.”

Read: Pictures show the extent of Christmas flooding in Bedford