How is the Hitchin MP helping flooding in North Herts?

Flooding has caused serious damage across Hitchin and North Herts in the last few weeks leaving many residents wondering what is being done to solve the problem in the future.

In the immediate aftermath, Hitchin MP Alistair Strathern ensured he was in "regular contact" with the local fire service and visited the worst-affected areas to hear what support residents need, in terms of quick relief and support for the months to come.

"My office and I are continuing to support constituents, flagging cases to local authorities, water companies and the environment agency," he said.

The MP plans to conduct meetings with local stakeholders including North Herts District Council and Herts County Council soon, to "review the flood response", and discuss efforts to "improve flood resilience" before the next incident.

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"My office are on hand to assist local residents with any questions, concerns or issues related to the flooding," he added.

MP Strathern said it has been "heartbreaking" to see flooding across the towns and villages in his constituency as homes, businesses and community services have all been affected.

Multiple Hitchin businesses were forced to close due to flooding. (Image: Jessica Platten/Dan Mountney) He wished to thank the the emergency services and volunteers who went the "extra mile" to keep everyone safe.

Hitchin Councillor Ian Albert urged authorities to focus on the Woolgrove Road area in Hitchin after it was hit three times by flooding in the last two weeks.

Woolgrove Road was hit badly by flooding due the recent heavy rain. (Image: Bianca Wild) He said: "Making sure we have a long-term plan particularly for the future, because the River Purwell requires dredging, raising the embankment and improved drainage and pipework.

"One key thing we can do straight away, is an immediate removal of the overgrown vegetation and fallen treas, and any other accumulated materials that have not helped improve the current flow of the river."

Hitchin's River Purwell burst its banks multiple times causing frequent flooding in Woolgrove Road.

The Councillor said hearing the stories of residents was "horrific", leaving some residents for "six months".

Currently, Cllr Albert is helping residents with their insurance companies and calls for action.

He added: "I've written to both county council and the environment agency calling for urgent work and a long-term investigation that has to be done to prevent this from happening again."