'Constant anxiety' over potential flooding

Concerns have been raised over flooding in Baneberry Road, Gloucester

Residents say they are living in "constant anxiety" their homes will be flooded amid concerns their road is not being swept often enough, leading to clogged drains.

More than 260 people signed a petition presented to Gloucester City Council calling for a solution to the problem in Baneberry Road.

The council said it is "working hard" on keeping drains clear, as well as working on “long-term flood alleviation schemes".

A spokesperson for Severn Trent said it is supporting the council’s investigation into the flooding.

City councillors approved a motion last week for a review of road sweeping schedules and drain maintenance around Matson, Robinswood, and White City, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The motion, submitted by Conservative councillor Alastair Chambers, will set up a channel with residents to report large build ups of leaves and waste.

Mr Chambers, who presented the petition signed by 268 people, said he witnessed the floods and saw residents having to bail out the water.

"With the increasing frequency of extreme weather events due to climate change, the recurring issue of flooding is a pressing problem," he said.

'Very complex'

Residents disputed the council’s claim that the road is swept every two weeks.

Environment cabinet member Sebastian Field said the issue was "very complex" as the street is swept by a private firm.

"It’s not as simple as saying the road is not swept enough," he said.

A Severn Trent spokesperson said the city council had made the company aware of surface water flooding issues.

"While we’re not aware of any issues with our network, we’re supporting their investigation into the cause," they said.

A spokesperson for the council said it clears more than 130,000 drains every year and encourages residents to report any issues via Fix My Street.

"Alongside partners we work hard on keeping gullies and drains clear across Gloucestershire, as well as working on long term flood alleviation schemes in regularly impacted areas," they said.