Sandycroft: 'Good progress' made in work to reduce flooding

The Sandycroft and Pentre area has been blighted by flooding issues in recent years - including last month when homes were flooded.

NRW has been working to address the issues, which has seen contractors clearing the watercourse (Sandycroft Drain) from the site compound at the Bridge Inn to the play area at Phoenix Street. A reduction in local water levels has been observed following this work, NRW said.

Some of the debris removed from the watercourse. (Image: NRW)

A spokesperson said: "Our contractors have removed a large quantity of debris and waste from this short stretch of watercourse at a significant cost to the public.

"Aside from the environmental damage, such material should not be in the brook as it can block the channel and cause sediment to build up, decreasing the watercourse’s ability to move or store flood water during extreme weather events.

"We would remind all residents who own land adjacent to a watercourse of their legal responsibilities for maintaining the bed and banks of the watercourse. This includes managing the trees and shrubs growing on the banks and ensuring water flows without obstruction or pollution. Banks should also be kept clear of anything that could cause an obstruction and increase flood risk."

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​NRW is encouraging residents to report any instances of material being dumped into the watercourse or any concerns about blockages by contacting it on 0300 065 3000 or via its website: Natural Resources Wales / Report an incident.

During the week commencing November 25, NRW expects to start clearance works within the culvert (pipe) of Pentre Drain North. This system runs adjacent to the north side of Chester Road from Glendale Avenue to where it connects to Sandycroft Drain at the Bridge Inn. This work will take several weeks to complete and traffic management on Chester Road will be necessary. NRW said its contractors will do their utmost to ensure any inconvenience is kept to a minimum.

NRW said clearing the Pentre Drain culvert will improve its ability to receive and manage flows entering from other drainage systems, such as highways or the public sewer system. Once cleaned, a CCTV camera survey will take place and allow NRW to confirm the location and details of any such connections.

The spokesperson added: "We will also identify any defects in the system that may be impeding flow and require structural repairs during a follow-up phase of work in the new year."