Isle of Wight: Cash help offered to flood-hit homes and businesses

Ryde was hit by flash flooding following the heavy rainfall

Residents and businesses hit by floods across the Isle of Wight after Storm Babet can apply for government funding.

Water rushed into properties and roads and railway lines were left underwater during heavy rainfall on 25 October.

Isle of Wight Council said up to £500 was available per household to help those whose homes suffered internal flood damage "with immediate costs".

Small to medium businesses can apply for up to £2,500 to help them get up and running again.

The clean-up continues on the island following the widespread flooding

Residents who are not able to live in their homes due to flooding may not have to pay council tax until they move back in.

Empty properties, second homes or student accommodation are not eligible.

Businesses that have been unable to run due to flooding at their premises can also apply for Business Rates Relief.

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Those affected can apply via the council's website.

The council said the Ryde Help Centre in Ryde Library will be open through Wednesday from 10.30-14:30 and 15:30-19:30 to help people complete their applications.

Flooding at Ryde St John’s station on 25 October when heavy rainfall flooded the tracks

Council leader Phil Jordan said: "We are committed to helping residents to recover from the recent extreme weather.

"The recent floods caused by some of the heaviest rainfall the Island has ever seen caused devastation for many of our residents, flooding their homes and making it impossible for them to return home for some time."

The council also urged anyone who had been flooded to inform both the Environment Agency and Southern Water.

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