Councillors and residents of North Baddesley are celebrating the end of a two-year flooding issue which was stopping children getting to school in heavy rain.

On Monday, December 4, the path became so flooded that some children were forced to walk on the busy A27, putting their lives at risk.

The path is well used by pupils who cycle to and from Mountbatten School, as well as many local residents.

Daily Echo: The path along Botley Road has been flooded when their is heavy rain for two yearThe path along Botley Road has been flooded when their is heavy rain for two year (Image: Submitted)

After the most recent bout of flooding last week, local councillors contacted Hampshire County Council and an emergency order was raised the next day.

Work then began on installing pumps and other drainage mechanisms to try and clear the footway flooding, making it safe for residents.

Daily Echo: This map shows the journey Mountbatten pupils have to make up Botley RoadThis map shows the journey Mountbatten pupils have to make up Botley Road (Image: Google Maps)

Cllr Geoff Cooper said: “The problem has been ongoing for nearly two years and has worsened with the heavier rainfall experienced in recent months.

“The installation of the drainage is a victory for local campaigning by residents and Lib Dem ward councillors.

“It is a shame that it has taken so long to find a solution, but I am glad we are finally there.

“Our climate is changing; the heavy and persistent rainfall is a symptom of that. Our infrastructure needs to be adapted to cope."

North Baddesley councils have told that parents were so concerned on the day that phone lines to Mountbatten school were jammed.

Following the torrential rain in the first week of the new year the path remained dry and usable, much to the relief of North Baddesley residents and councillors.

Daily Echo: This is one of the new features that has been installed along the pathThis is one of the new features that has been installed along the path (Image: Geoff Cooper)

Cllr Amanda Ford added: “Numerous parents have contacted me regarding the safety of their children walking and cycling to the Mountbatten School every time it rained.

“We have been campaigning for drainage works to be carried out for two years to no avail.

“I’m glad at last Hampshire County Council saw sense and have put satisfactory drainage in place and our children can walk or cycle to school safely.”

Cllr Alan Warnes added: “I am relieved that this dangerous issue has been resolved at last and that no one has been hurt."