With the wet spring and a not much better start to the summer continuing concerns over drainage issues in this location have been raised by local residents. With a high water table in parts of the village, there will always be a need to pay attention to drainage. The problem in this area emanates from
- The drainage under Bedfield Lane from the ditch to the river in the watercress beds.
- The storm water culverts from Down Farm Lane to the river by Worthy Barn.
In order to try and resolve the matter Headbourne Worthy Parish Council had previously taken the matter up with both HCC Highways and the Environment Agency. To ensure that all the issues would be resolved before Christmas, County Councillor Jackie Porter arranged for a site review meeting on August 15, with officers from both authorities, together with parish councillor David Spurling.
The land alongside Bedfield Lane should be regularly cut including the sides of the ditch, by Winchester City Council. Cllr Porter will ensure that this work is included on their regular cutting schedule. Whilst Hampshire County Council will clear out the culverts, send a camera along to check for any faults, and place a grill on the entrance to stop more debris going through.
The storm drains are not working in Down Farm Lane because the exit for water via the drainage ditch is silted up. The County Council will clear the ditch of silt next to Worthy Barn. Some work had already started in the previous week or so, but had yet to be completed. They will continue to clear the ditch between the fences next to Worthy Barn, before the Environment Agency clear and regrade the river so it does not silt so easily again.
All those attending the meeting agreed to review progress again on site at the beginning of October, before the winter rains occur (as if we haven’t had enough rain in August!).
The Parish Council will keep local residents informed of progress.
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