The Environment Agency’s annual initiative aims to encourage people to take proactive steps, such as knowing their flood risk, preparing a flood plan, and signing up for flood warnings. With climate change increasing the intensity of flood events, more properties are facing risks.
During the week, the Council’s Resilience and Highways teams will visit communities to offer advice and practical support. Events are scheduled for Tuesday 13 October at Bromham Mill (10am-midday) and Harrold Country Park (1-2.30pm); Thursday 15 October at Riseley Village Hall (11am-12.30pm) and Clapham High Street (1.30-3.30pm); and Friday 16 October at Harpur Square in Silver Street, Bedford town centre (11am-1pm).
Expert advice will cover reviewing home insurance, making a flood plan, and shutting off utilities. The team will also join Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service to meet Community Flood Groups, offering aqua sacs and Hydrosac training.
The Council runs a year-round gully clearing rota and checks known flood hotspots. Residents can report increased flood risk via www.bedford.gov.uk/ReportFlooding or by calling 01234 267 422. Homeowners remain responsible for protecting their property.
There are now 12 Community Flood Groups across the Borough, including volunteers from Riseley, Yelden, Swineshead, Harrold, Odell, Carlton, Clapham, Stevington, Great Barford, Kempston West, Turvey, and Marina Court (Kempston). These groups work with the Council’s Resilience team, creating bespoke Flood Plans and receiving Flood Kits funded by the Environment Agency.
Tom Wootton, Elected Mayor of Bedford Borough, stated: “We aim to ensure communities in the Borough are taking key steps to prepare, protect and build resilience in the face of flood risks, with the Council’s full support.”
