THE Hythe his being "left behind" while other parts of Colchester benefit from investment and development, a councillor believes.

Lee Scordis, Colchester councillor for Old Heath, the Hythe and Rowhedge, is calling for action to be taken to combat once and for all flooding issues which have long plagued the Hythe.

The campaigner is appealing for a masterplan to be established by Colchester Council which will set out how the area can be rejuvenated over the next ten to 50 years. 

Mr Scordis said: “Councillor Lilley and I complained about the lack of action after a year, as well as the non-attendance of the cabinet member for Highways, and Mr Quince accused us of being political. 

Gazette: Dangerous - flooding in Haven RoadDangerous - flooding in Haven Road (Image: Public)
"The flooding on Haven Road effects the whole city and it is staggering our MP is abdicating himself of any responsibility.

“Now after two years, he has thrown his toys out the pram about the lack of action, when it is Conservative-run Essex Highways who are the responsible flood authority and fail to act or even attend.

"The Hythe is one of main entrances to Colchester but since the port closed it has become neglected, a dumping ground for students and a hotspot of crime. 

"The Hythe has been left behind."

Gazette: Campaign - Lee Scordis, Colchester councillor for Old Heath, the Hythe and Rowhedge, is calling for action to be taken to combat once and for all flooding issues which have long plagued the HytheCampaign - Lee Scordis, Colchester councillor for Old Heath, the Hythe and Rowhedge, is calling for action to be taken to combat once and for all flooding issues which have long plagued the Hythe (Image: Lee Scordis)
Mr Scordis' plea comes after the taskforce set up in May 2021 by Colchester MP Will Quince did not bring about the expected results. 

In a letter sent to Essex County Council, Anglian Water and Colchester Council, Mr Quince previously announced he would not chair any further task force meetings until action is taken.

According to Mr Quince, however, Anglian Water has since offered a £20,000 contribution to any project in relation to the Hythe. 

He said: "I remain deeply frustrated at the situation and the failure of the relevant authorities to take some responsibility.

"Residents and businesses have had to put up with flooding at the Hythe for too long, it's time for the local authorities to work together to find and fund a solution, not more buck passing." 

Gazette: Frustration - Colchester MP Will QuinceFrustration - Colchester MP Will Quince (Image: Newsquest)
Bosses at Anglian Water have said they have always been enthusiastic about the task force. 

A spokesman said: "We understand how frustrating this issue is for local residents in the Hythe.

Gazette: Floody hell - Haven Road has been plagued by flooding in the Hythe Floody hell - Haven Road has been plagued by flooding in the Hythe  (Image: Newsquest)

"We carried out an investigation in December 2021 which found the flooding on Haven Road is caused by a public sewer, not owned or operated by Anglian Water.

"Because of this, we’re not able to complete the work recommended on this sewer – we don’t feel it would be fair to use our customers’ money to fund work on a private asset."

Bosses at Essex County Council added: “This system is still being costed and once purchased, it is hoped experienced Anglian Water operatives will lead on installation."