Flood gates exercise planned to protect community

The Environment Agency wants to train volunteers on how to deploy the flood gates

Flood gates at a vulnerable area within the Norfolk broads will be closed temporarily on Monday to help protect homes and businesses.

Parts of Potter Heigham, near Great Yarmouth, were under water for several weeks from November 2023 to March.

Businesses including Herbert Woods boat yard and retailer Lathams of Potter Heigham suffered damage to equipment, stock and their buildings.

The Environment Agency (EA) wants local people, such as staff at Lathams, trained in how to use the flood barriers.

The EA will erect flood boards at the Lathams' car park at various times between 09:00 GMT and 12:00, but access will still be possible for motorists.

Paul Rice, a senior flood warden, says last winter he and his volunteers dealt with 120 days of flooding without a break

Paul Rice, lead senior flood warden for Potter Heigham, said the team was running the flood gates exercise to make sure the team and local volunteers were prepared for future flooding.

He said a team was on standby 24-7 for 265 days per year.

"Last year we had 120 days of flooding without a break, and our people were tired, so having more trained people will spread the workload," he explained.

"Having more people capable of deploying the barrier means we have less to clear up if there is a flood, because it can save buildings, livelihoods and people."

John Goldie, the general manager of Lathams, said some of his staff would be among those trained to deploy the flood gate

John Goldie, general manager of Lathams, said "touch wood" the area was better prepared for water levels rising.

"But the more control [of flooding], the better," he said.

"I know we aren't the fifth emergency service, but we will help the community."