Agenda item

(To receive a report from Deborah Campbell (Environment Agency) which invites the Committee to consider and comment on the activities of the Environment Agency including progress of key capital schemes)

The Committee gave consideration to a report from the Environment Agency, which provided an update on the Environment Agency activities, including progress on key capital schemes.

Particular reference was made to the recent incident at the Boston Barrier, which had seen seepage through the bank in the vicinity of the Boston Barrier works.  The Committee was advised that the incident had occurred during piling works carried out to increase the strength and stability of the bank.  It was noted that some of the work had been completed prior to the high tide, however, the clay material that had been removed from the bank had not been reinstated at that time, which had led to localised seepage.  The Committee was advised further that the Environment Agency had been working with the Contractors to identify the lessons learnt from the incident.

Some members who had attended the scene expressed their concerns relating to the matter, and particular reference was made to the attitude of the contractors who had been unaware of the high tide; and to the lack of Environment Agency personnel available on site to reassure residents.  Local members felt that the whole incident had been 'played down and dismissed as being one of things that could happen'. 

The Committee was advised flood alerts had not been issued, as a tidal surge or abnormal tides had not been predicted.  It was highlighted that local residents had been 'terrified' by the incident, particularly those living in close proximity, as they had been scared that the bank was going to collapse. 

One of the local members highlighted the following points:-

·         The need for better communication between all parties;

·         A question was asked as to whether residents who had goods damaged by the water would receive compensation from the contractors;

·         A request was made for every household along the section of Wyberton Low Road to be visited to give them an opportunity to raise their concerns;

·         Concern was expressed that moist of the properties under the cover of the bank were rented and occupied by residents with a poor knowledge of the English language.  A request was made for an interpreter to accompany those making the above requested visits;

·         A request was also made for the operators on the Floodline number to be made fully aware of the correct procedure in such circumstances.

The Environment Agency reassured the Committee that the risks had been low; and that the structural integrity of the bank had not been compromised.  Confirmation was given that in this instance, the reason for the seepage had been because the clay had not been reinstated.  It was confirmed that lessons had been learnt; and that actions had already been put in to place to prevent them happening again.

Other points raised by the Committee in relation to the report were as follows:-

·         The need to consider and include Economic Development and Resilience in future projects; some members welcomed an update from the Environment Agency Board.  The Committee was advised that issues were known to the Environment Agency, particular issues quoted included all year round occupancy in caravans to help retain skilled workers.  It was noted that the Environment Agency would have to assess the level of risk; spatial planning; development along the coast; and restrictions on properties in flood risk areas; and

·         Horncastle and Louth Improvements – One member enquired as to whether the project had come in on budget and whether issues with the landowners had been resolved.  The Committee was advised that both improvement projects had come in well within budget.  Confirmation was give that there was no rebate.  It was reported there was still one outstanding land remediation issue at Louth.

RESOLVED

            That the Environment Agency update be received.