New bid to tackle flooding


In the wake of Looe experiencing some of its most widespread flooding in recent years – the town was flooded twice in one day recently – talks are to begin once more on a multi-million-pound flood prevention scheme.


A plan about eight years ago, involving the building of new harbour walls,was rejected. However, in the Looe Area Community Action Plan of May 2007, one of the stated priorities was: ‘Getting a flood defence scheme built to reduce the risk of the town flooding.’


This plan also stated that: ‘Flooding is getting worse – it is predicted to get much worse. A defence scheme is very expensive. Looe Harbour Commissioners are to continue to lead and lobby for a scheme.’


The harbour commissioners have confirmed they are keen to work with the Environment Agency towards finding a solution to the flooding problem.


Nick Ely, of the Environment Agency, told the Looe News’ sister title the Cornish Times that the agency was eager to start looking at flood defences for the town. Explaining that it would be an expensive scheme, he said: ‘We want Looe to come to us. We are keen that any scheme is led by the wishes of the local community.’


In a statement, the agency said: ‘We are continuing to work with Looe Harbour Commissioners and Cornwall Council to investigate options for managing the flood risk in Looe.


‘Historically, schemes have been considered and proposed to try to reduce the frequency of tidal flooding in Looe, but these have typically not


suited the continued daily use of the harbour users or have not been financially viable.


‘The Environment Agency would welcome the opportunity to work in a collaborative group to investigate further options and potential financial contributions from all beneficiary parties to promote and deliver a long-term solution to the problem of tidal flooding in Looe.’


Looe county councillor and harbour commissioner Armand Toms has emailed the town’s main organisations regarding setting up a meeting with the agency.


‘I want to bring forward a Looe community-led project, to solve the flooding problems,’ he said. ‘I hope to get everyone together to start working on a solution.’


Harbourmaster Jeff Penhaligon said that in his opinion a flood prevention scheme should run in tandem with a new sewage system for the town.


‘The drainage system simply can’t cope with all the extra water created by high spring tides and bad weather together,’ he said.


‘The result is the drains flood as well as the harbour. Polperro has benefited from South West Water’s Clean Sweep – it should now be Looe’s turn. It would make a huge difference.’


Mr Penhaligon has also asked that motorists drive with more consideration for the properties on flooded streets.


‘Some of them were driving like idiots during the floods, creating waves and spray which was going into the shops and causing damage,’ he said.


Walkway to Pennyland, West Looe


West Looe was flooded as water came in over the harbour wall. Pictures courtesy of Tim Deakin


Banjo Pier at Looe


East Looe by the river.


The tide at Tidal Court in Looe LOOE NEWS DECEMBER 2012 9


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