Chandler's Ford: Civic chiefs vow to tackle School Lane floods

Hampshire County Council has identified a "damaged and root-infested" pipe that is adding to a long-running problem at School Lane - one of the main roads through Valley Park.

The authority's chief executive, Carolyn Williamson, has told the highways team to "prioritise" the pipe's replacement.

The potential breakthrough has received a cautious welcome from people living beside a low-lying section of School Lane that often floods after heavy rain.

Signs warning of floods have often appeared in School Lane after heavy rain (Image: Newsquest.)

Some of the worst incidents seen so far occurred during the recent spell of exceptionally wet weather.

Over the years flooding has resulted in cars breaking down and drivers having to be rescued. Other issues include pavement damage caused by vehicles mounting the kerb in a bid to get through the water.

READ MORE: Southampton area wakes up to flood warning following heavy rain

Mark Anderson, of Salcombe Close, said: "Every time we get heavy rain I know there's going to be a problem.

"We end up with a lake across School Lane. I can't tell you how many times tankers have arrived to suck up the water."

Referring to Storm Henk he added: "Last Thursday was horrendous. You could see water coming up the garden."

Pavements have been damaged by vehicles mounting the kerb in a bid to get through the floodwater (Image: Newsquest.)

Other streets affected by the issue include Warwick Close, where homes are slightly below the road level.

Ward councillor Alan Dowden said: "I've been pushing for major drainage work and have been very frustrated by the lack of action.

"Warwick Close residents were panicking at Christmas because water was threatening to go down their driveways and into their homes. Now I've got an assurance that something is going to be done."

Cllr Dowden has received an email from Ms Williamson in which she says the highways team is "very much aware" of the issue.

READ MORE: Storm Henk batters parts of UK with high winds and heavy rain

"An extensive survey, as well as high-pressure jetting, have already taken place to help ascertain the condition of the system and highlight any areas requiring further investigation.

"A section of collapsed and root-infested pipe in School Lane is almost certainly exacerbating the flooding issue. This will need to be replaced.

"I have asked that this work is prioritised, although you will appreciate there is a high demand on highways services at present due to the significant impacts of Storm Henk."

Mr Anderson added: "I'm fairly confident the issue is going to be resolved. But we want it to be resolved once and for all."

A spokesperson for Hampshire County Council said:  “A survey of the highway drainage in the area has identified a number of issues, all of which have been exacerbated by the recent very wet weather.

"We plan to replace a section of pipe on School Lane in the near future and also undertake further investigation to identify the cause of flooding on Templars Way.”