West Lancashire homes impacted by New Year flooding
Serious flooding has affected a number of properties in West Lancashire due to heavy rain on New Year's Eve that continued into New Year's Day. The affected properties were in Ormskirk with a smaller number of properties affected in Appley Bridge and Parbold.
Council officers worked closely with Lancashire County Council and the emergency services in the immediacy of the incident to assist affected families. Whilst most displaced residents were able to make their own arrangements, the Council provided one family with overnight accommodation.
Officers have liaised with residents in the affected areas, visiting flooded properties to monitor any immediate need for assistance as well as making sure vulnerable residents are safe. The Council has also assisted with street cleaning and residents dealing with flood-damaged property.
Flood warnings for the River Douglas at Parbold, and Sandy Brook and Hurlston Brook at Ormskirk, have now been removed. However, there is now an amber weather warning in place for snow over the weekend which will bring its own problems.
Residents are advised to remain vigilant and plan ahead.
Councillor Gareth Dowling, Deputy Leader and lead member for Community Safety and Planning, said: "Waking up on a day that should be a positive start to a new year, only to find your house has been flooded, is incredibly distressing and our thoughts are with everyone who has been affected by the severe weather.
“We will continue to help residents with practical support wherever possible as they begin to rebuild and recover from this devastating incident.
"I'm heartened to know that the community has rallied round to support those in need of help. My thanks also go to the emergency services for their efforts in the immediate aftermath of the flooding."
The council is working with working with LCC and partners to ascertain the cause of the flooding.
Residents who have been impacted by floodwater can visit the Council's website for advice and useful contact details.
This information includes:
- What to do in a flooding emergency
- A contact number if you need to evacuate your property and need alternative accommodation
- Information about Lancashire County Council's role as the lead flood authority and contact details
- Who to contact about flooding from sewers, blocked drains or burst water mains
- Link to external insurance advice
- Information on how to prepare for and recover from a flood
