Folkestone & Sandgate Flooding Fear

The recent heavy rain in Folkestone and Sandgate has highlighted the shocking state of drain clearance throughout the area. Folkestone West County Councillor Tim Prater has demanded urgent action from Kent Highways after roads turned into raging rivers in places over the weekend.

Residents in Folkestone and Sandgate faced road and pavement flooding due to heavy rain. In many places, the flooding caused fear of damage to property. Clearing of street drains (gullies) is the responsibility of Conservative dominated Kent County Council.

Lib Dem Campaigner Tim Prater said:

"The clearing of street drains in Kent is apparently scheduled to be done every 12 to 18 months. But looking at the state of our drains, it's clear that the Tory run County Council are simply not doing enough to keep the drains clear and keep us safe from flooding.

"Some drains are in a dreadful state - blocked with debris that can't have been cleared for years. In some places, up to 80% of the drains are visibly blocked: no wonder they can't cope with heavy rain.

"I've demanded urgent action from Kent Highways on urgently clearing the worst affected areas in Folkestone and Sandgate. I've also called for a schedule of planned drain clearance in the area - I simply don't believe all drains are cleared very year, and that's a disgrace. Every road in the area should be on the schedule, and local residents should know when their street will have drains cleaned."

Are the drains overgrown and blocked in YOUR area? Contact Lib Dem campaigner Tim Prater.