Jammed valves cause issues at The Strand in Wherstead

Suffolk County Council's highways committee has said that once the investigation is completed they will look to replace or mend the valves on The Strand. 

The Strand is a busy route leading in and out of Ipswich, heading underneath the Orwell Bridge and to Freston.

But it has been plagued by flooding issues, which have been exacerbated by the wet weather in October with some flooding near the Oyster Reach Beefeater restaurant.

It is understood that the valves that exist to ensure that water is retained within River Orwell and make up a part of the flood mitigation installation for the road had become jammed. 

This resulted in water spillage across the road which caused partial and minor flooding.

A Suffolk Highways spokesperson said: "A survey of the system will be arranged as soon as possible to determine the cause of the valves not closing as they should.

"Once the cause has been identified, any work required will be agreed and planned. "

Christopher Hudson had previously called for more collaboration over dealing with issues at The Strand.  (Image: Archant) In October, when the flooding first took place Belstead Brook's county councillor Christopher Hudson had called for an urgent review into flood provision along The Strand because of its effects on residents and drivers. 

"I think we need a serious and urgent review of the situation because it is a question of life and limb," he said. 

"It is a question of threat to public safety."

He added that in an ideal scenario, Ipswich Borough Council and Suffolk County Council along with the Highways committee should collaborate to review issues on The Strand. 

Daniel Potter had said that The Strand is prone to flooding.  (Image: Babergh District Council) Meanwhile, Babergh district councillor Daniel Potter said that due to heavy rainfall and the road being in a low-lying area, it is prone to flooding. 

Mr Potter then said: "It's a concern should there be more adverse weather on the way to that part of Wherstead facing the Orwell in close proximity."