Flooding statement from council leader

The statement below follows the flooding in Immingham yesterday (Thursday):

Councillor Chris Shaw, leader of North East Lincolnshire Council, said: "The council has been working closely with partner organisations to respond swiftly to the flash flooding which occurred in Immingham yesterday as a result of heavy rainfall.

"Emergency recovery plans were put into place, and the Civic Centre was used as a temporary rest centre. This multi-agency response appears to have worked well, with many organisations on the scene within a short period of time – and praise goes to all involved for such successful partnership working.

"A number of households were evacuated due to the water levels; they were offered essential facilities at the Civic Centre and the borough council's homelessness team has been offering appropriate support to those who require overnight accommodation.

"Three primary schools were partially affected: Canon Peter Hall, Eastfield and Allerton. These remain closed today but the council is working to find alternative accommodation to relocate classrooms to ensure educational provision is maintained.

"Immingham Library and Immingham Resource Centre also experienced problems. The library will remain closed until further notice; however there will be a limited library service available at the Immingham Civic Offices from Monday, from 10am to 2pm, for people wishing to return or collect reserved items.

"Immingham pumping station was operating satisfactorily but the rainfall was of such intensity that it very quickly overwhelmed the town's drainage systems. Fortunately the water levels were mostly quick to recede, although extra pumping from some areas was undertaken by Humberside Fire and Rescue, with support from Anglian Water, Conoco Phillips and the council.

"The flood waters have now subsided, but if any residents require assistance with any issues relating to the floods, please contact the council on (01472) 313131.

"As well as rectifying things in Immingham, the council will now be examining the incident to further develop the local flood risk strategy."