East Ilsley housing proposal sparks flooding concerns

West Berkshire Council is considering a proposal to build 14 new homes on agricultural land near East Ilsley High Street.

The proposal — submitted by Manor Oak Homes — includes eight affordable homes, open public space and a shared office space.

A Flood Risk assessment noted the development site is located within Flood Zone 1 and is at a low risk of flooding from all other sources.

The report states the risk of groundwater and sewer flooding is low — but has no records for either.

Thames Water said: “The scale of the proposed development doesn’t materially affect the sewer network and as such we have no objection.

“However, care needs to be taken when designing new networks to ensure they don’t surcharge and cause flooding.

“In the longer term, Thames Water, along with other partners, are working on a strategy to reduce groundwater entering the sewer network.”

But some residents are still concerned about the risk of flooding.

Andrew Cork said: “It is not true that there has been no groundwater flooding in the vicinity.

“We are currently entering the fourth week of continually pumping water from our cellar.

“With reference to the proposed surface water drainage, the plans indicate that a surface water drainage basin will be situated at the end of our rear garden where the land slopes steeply down towards our property.

“We are very concerned any excess surface water will run down the sloping garden into our ground floor living room, significantly increasing the flood risk to our property.”

Another resident, Malcolm Morrisen, added: “The drainage scheme may work on paper but I know, having lived in this property for 40 years, it will have a long term detrimental impact on the residents of East Ilsley.”

The proposed drainage strategy aims to reduce surface water discharge off site via A piped network, Permeable paving to private drives and an infiltration basin.

Foul water will discharge to the Thames Water sewer located within the southeastern corner of the development site.

The council is due to determine the application by Tuesday, April 9.