Ryde Flood Response From 2023 Under Review By Isle Of Wight Council

Isle of Wight councillors have reviewed the response to the devastating Ryde floods of October 2023 at a County Hall committee meeting.

More than 100 properties in the Monktonmead area were hit after Storm Babet, an “extreme rainfall event” that caused flash flooding and surface water issues across the town.

Investigations by the council and the Environment Agency (EA) point to a combination of saturated ground, drainage problems, blockages, and a combined sewer system contributing to the flooding.

The report highlights the severe impact on residents, many of whom were forced into temporary or permanent accommodation, and on local businesses.

The EA previously admitted there were issues with its response, including a two-hour delay in installing flood boards at Simeon Recreation Ground and communication breakdowns that left uncertainty over flood protection measures. An EA spokesperson said lessons have been learned, and improvements have been built into both procedures and flood defence structures.

The committee have examined both reports as the council seeks to ensure Ryde is better prepared for future extreme weather events.