Cyclist injured in flooded Southway underpass

The Abbeygate underpass, which runs from Abbeygate Street, Colchester, underneath Southway, has become notorious for flooding with the issue plaguing the spot for years.

In attempts to make it passable by foot, residents have placed items inside the underground crossing but this has created further hazards when floodwater washes them aside.

James Moules, who lives in Colchester, was cycling to work at 6.30am on Tuesday when he was knocked off his bike by a piece of metal railing used by people to navigate the water on foot.

However, the floodwater had risen much higher than usual and the railing was invisible beneath the murky water surface.

Mr Moules said he was left feeling “a bit sore” with bruising and his bike needing to be repaired after the incident.

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Mr Moules’ wife, Shelley, said: “Fortunately he was riding slowly through the underpass when he hit the submerged obstacle.

“James has said he has noticed recently people have been placing objects in the floodwater to make it passable.

“He has seen bricks, bits of wood and now this metal railing submerged beneath the water.

“He has seen schoolchildren take their shoes and socks off to wade through the waters, as if this is a normal thing which obviously is regular for them.

“We are unhappy as the council has known about this underpass flooding for three years, at least. There were no flood signs out to warn anyone - previously there has been.

“We are encouraged to use bicycles, e-scooters etc but then the footpaths and cycleways are not maintained.

“I’d like the Town Deal money to be used to remedy this.”

Lee Scordis in Haven Road

Labour councillor Lee Scordis, who also spotted the issue, said he had reported the problem again, having previously raised concerns.

He added: “Essex Highways said pumps were the solution three years ago and never delivered.”

Colchester Council’s environment boss, Simon Crow said he has asked the council’s zone team to look into the issue and sort it out.