Storm Chandra: reports of serious flooding in Norton

Areas of Langley Drive and Hambleton Road have water coming up through the drains following heavy rain due to Storm Chandra.

Drivers are being urged to avoid the area and not drive through the flooded area which pushes the water towards the houses.

Freda Barry, who lives near the junction to the two roads, said there had been issues with water coming through the drains over recent days but this was the worst she had seen it.

“This is the fifth time in 10 days that the drains have been blocked,” she said.

“The other day I went out with a rake and pushed down into the drain and there was around eight inches of silt.

“I have lived here for 53 years and this has never happened as bad as this before. The drains just can’t cope and now they are wanting to build even more houses.”

Neighbours Janice and Richard Barker said they had lived in their home since it was built and had never experienced anything as bad as this.

Richard said: “I’ve phoned Yorkshire Water and they said they might be able to get a pump out by this evening.

“The water is just sitting on top of the drains. We’ve had an odd one like this before but this is really dreadful.”

North Yorkshire Councillor for Norton Cllr Keane Duncan said: ““The situation is deteriorating, with flooding now across the road, footpaths and approaching residential properties.

“I’ve been in touch with authorities asking for urgent attention and action. “I have been informed by North Yorkshire Council that they are deploying their gulley machine, while Yorkshire Water are sending a tanker to flush the sewer. I have stressed to them that this must be a priority.

“Vehicles travelling through the water are causing ripples that are getting close to properties. I would advise people to avoid travelling through this area.

“I have also requested that sandbags are deployed as a precautionary measure at this stage. I will share a further update as soon as I can.”