Liberal Democrats welcome flooding gauge breakthrough after years of campaigning

Trafford's Liberal Democrat councillors are hailing a "major breakthrough" in the campaign to protect homes in Timperley from flash flooding. 

Homes across Timperley experienced severe flooding during the New Year's Day floods, which saw a 'major incident' declared across Greater Manchester.  Since 2022, local Liberal Democrat Councillors have been campaigning to secure new flood risk gauges' for Fairywell Brook - one of the water courses that has breached consistently during heavy rains.  

Timperley North Ward Councillor, Will Frass said, "For years now, we have been making the case that the flood risk data in Timperley is inaccurate.  Alongside the Environment Agency and other partners, we have been very clear that flooding gauges are needed so that the true risk to residents can be properly proven to emergency services and Trafford Council.  New gauges will show the authorities what residents have known for years,  that the flood risk in Timperley is much more widespread than previously thought." 

It has now been announced by The Environment Agency that two "temporary gauges" will be installed - with one of them earmarked for Fairywell Brook and the other for Sinderland Brook. 

Timperley Central representative Councillor Julian Newgrosh said, "This is extremely welcome and long overdue news.  Liberal Democrat councillors have repeatedly pushed at every level to secure these gauges.  We have pushed Trafford Council and the Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham and we are very pleased that we have been able to secure this step forward." 

"We need to see these gauges left in place permanently.  They are important because the data they produce will help us make the case for longer term spending on flood defences for Timperley residents." 

"With climate change making severe weather all the more likely, this is not the end of the work we have to do to support residents.  But it is a very welcome breakthrough."