We are afraid of our homes flooding every time it rains

Residents of a Leicestershire town devastated by flooding worry that this winter could bring more upheaval. On January 6, heavy rains caused Barkby Brook to overflow, inundating numerous homes in Syston and marking one of the most severe flood events in the countys recent history. Many families were displaced for months as repairs and replacements of furniture and fixtures continued, with some work still unfinished nearly a year later.

Kelvin Furniss, whose home on University Close was submerged in ankle-deep water, described the damage to his floors and expressed concern that the nightmare could return. He said, In over 45 years here, weve never seen anything like it. Now, every rainfall makes us fear the next flood. Theres no peace of mind; its not a question of if, but when.

Kelvin and his wife Madeleine spent nine months in a rental while their house was repaired. Even two months after returning, work is still ongoing. Its been costly and disruptive. Insurance jumped from 300 to 1,200 annually. Weve raised walls, elevated the patio doors, and installed flood barriers. We hope its enough, but we cant be certain, he added.

Trev Davies, 70, moved into his College Road bungalow just three weeks before the flooding. I barely settled in before having to evacuate. The entire street was affected. Skips still line the roads with ruined furniture. I watch the brook every day because it could happen again at any moment, he said.

Flood warden Tim Lewin emphasized the teams readiness to assist vulnerable residents such as 84-year-old Maureen Lawson. She recalled the trauma of five-inch-deep water entering her home, forcing her out for eight months. Even during Storm Claudia this month, I stayed awake two nights, worried it would happen again. I cant move easily, and I feared seeing my belongings floating as they did in January, she said.

Skips remain common in Syston as builders continue repairs and install protective measures. Tim Lewin noted, Januarys flooding was catastrophic. Builders have been working on affected homes and adding defences. People are anxious whenever it rains.

He added that while residents escaped serious impact during Storm Claudia, preparation is vital. With new housing developments nearby, water has fewer places to go, and resources for gully cleaning are limited. We can prepare by keeping sandbags handy and knowing where vulnerable residents are to provide prompt help.

Leicestershire County Council oversees flood management in the area. Councillor Adam Tilbury, cabinet member for environment and flooding, said the council is investing more in supporting flood-prone communities. After recent storms, we redirected 2 million from a net zero fund to maintain drains, gutters, culverts, and roads. Its a small amount, but it will help residents at risk.

Author: Sophia Brooks