Flood-hit residents in north Norfolk will get the chance to have their voices heard by a panel of experts at a major public meeting on flooding next month.
Thousands of households across the region have been affected by recent flooding, including the Broads villages of Potter Heigham, Horning and Hickling and upto Sheringham on the north Norfolk coast.
In Hickling, around a dozen households were unable to use their toilets, baths or showers for up to two months after storms raised water levels on the Broad, overwhelming sewerage systems.
Locals instead had to use a council-owned public toilet block at the end of Staithe Road, as well as showers at a North Walsham swimming pool and a laundrette in Wroxham.
READ MORE: Flood-hit Hickling villager's public toilet 'nightmare'
Now, those affected will be able to raise their concerns with representatives from Anglian Water, the Environment Agency, and Norfolk County Council at a meeting at Hickling Barn Community Centre on Friday, February 2, at 7pm.
“I'm holding this meeting to give constituents across North Norfolk the chance to ensure their voice is heard loud and clear,” North Norfolk MP Duncan Baker, who is organising the meeting, said.
“It has been a difficult few months for so many, with some severe flooding in many areas across North Norfolk.
"I have seen for myself that Potter Heigham, Horning, Hickling, Sheringham and the Glaven Valley have all suffered flooding due to the unprecedented amount of rain we have been experiencing.
“The challenges faced by these communities are severe, and finding a solution is of the utmost importance to me.
"Climate change is driving wetter winters and more adverse weather. We need to plan now for what is a continuing pattern of events and that is why I want to bring our stakeholders together for this crucial meeting.
READ MORE: Drone images show flooding across the Norfolk Broads
Attending the meeting will be:
- Graham Verrier – Environment Agency Area director
- Grant Tuffs – Anglian Water Regional Engagement Manager
- Matthew Philpot – Internal Drainage Board Area Manager
- Henry Cator – Chairman Flood Resilience Programme
- Joel Hull - Assistant Director Waste and Water Management at Norfolk County Council
- The Broads Authority
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