COLCHESTER residents have been warned to expect “significant” flooding in a notorious spot later this week.

A combination of high tides and rainfall could see Haven Road, in the Hythe, flood twice daily from tomorrow morning through to Sunday.

The warning comes after similar conditions combined at the end of October to cause severe flooding along the road, which runs between Colne Causeway and Whitehall Road.

Colchester Council has urged motorists to plan their journeys accordingly and take alternative routes if possible.

The flooding is forecasted to occur throughout Thursday, Friday and Sunday, as well as Saturday morning.

Gazette:

Simon Crow, Colchester Council portfolio holder for environment and sustainability, said: “Unfortunately high tides and rainfall, which are forecast at the end of this week and into the weekend, could see further flooding along Haven Road and some potential disruption to residents, businesses and motorists.

“I would urge people to avoid the area during periods of high tide, when we can expect the flooding to be at its worst, and to use alternative routes if they possibly can.”

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The cause of the flooding remains complex and due to several factors, including inflowing water from the Bourne stream system via Distillery Pond and the duration the tide is above the level of Haven Road.

There is also a limited capacity below road level for water to seep away and heavy rainfall can further compound the problem and affect the frequency and severity of flooding.

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In response to the issue which has plagued the area for years, Colchester MP Will Quince established the Hythe Taskforce with the aim to identify and assist a solution to the ongoing problem.

While the task force concedes Haven Road may always be susceptible to flooding, it is working to explore lasting solutions to reduce the impact and disruption it causes.

This includes the use of data and intelligent signage going forward.

Last Friday, Mr Quince attended Haven Road alongside Essex County Council and Colchester Council.

Following this, both councils and Anglian Water agreed to fund monthly valve de-silting. Essex County Council also pledged to fund and install signage warning drivers when there is a high tide.