NEW specialist signs to warn businesses and drivers of bad flooding on the Hythe have been hailed as a "significant step" forward. 

The issue has been again discussed at the latest Hythe Taskforce meeting.

The taskforce was launched by Colchester MP Will Quince in May 2021 to tackle the area’s crumbling infrastructure and regenerate it.

The Hythe has been plagued by persistent flooding for decades, leaving residents facing lengthy waits and disrupting traders in the area.

At the latest meeting several proposals were put forth to reduce the impact of flooding as well as the frequency of such incidents.

The meeting, led by David King, leader of Colchester Council, discussed the plans to install the new intelligent road signs mooted in February.

The meeting engaged with councillors, MP Will Quince, community representatives, and officials from various agencies, including the Environment Agency, city council, and county council.

Tom Cunningham, Essex County Council’s cabinet member for planning a growing economy, said: "We recognise the adverse effects of flooding on traffic and the subsequent challenges faced by businesses and residents.

"The introduction of these intelligent road signs marks a significant step in enhancing road safety and minimizing inconvenience during flooding incidents."

Proposed to be in place by late summer, these signs would provide real-time flood alerts to drivers, helping to relieve congestion and lower disruptions.

Another proposal was managing the construction of silt in the water outfall near King Edward Quay.

Colchester Council announced future projects to eliminate blockages and conduct surveys in April, aiming to install a new valve to regulate river water influx, a significant stride towards controlling flood incidences.

The meeting extended its discussions to managing Distillery Pond water levels, especially during periods of heavy rain, in co-operation with the Distillery Pond Management Company.

Mr King said: "Only by addressing deep rooted challenges collaboratively can we make travel easier and life better for residents and businesses.

"There is much to do that will take time, funding, resolve and patience.

"But I thank Taskforce colleagues for their commitment and for the progress we are now making."