The Seahaven Community Flood Fair was held on Saturday 23 April at Seaford Head School, Steyne Road, Seaford. Around 100 residents, including local MP Maria Caulfield, took the opportunity to call in and find out more about the practical help and advice that is available to residents at risk of flooding. East Sussex County Council representatives were on hand to explain their role as the Lead Local Flood Authority. They also answered questions on Highways flooding. Lewes District Council along with Seaford and Newhaven Town Councils explained how local authorities and emergency services respond to the threat of flooding and the important role that voluntary and community organisations play. Information about the Seahaven Flood Plan was provided, while the Environment Agency explained the progress on the Newhaven Flood Alleviation scheme accompanied by a compelling video of the effects of climate change and sea level rises along the Seaford and Newhaven coastline.
Very popular and a highlight of the Fair was the presence of the National Flood Forum stand, where excellent practical information and advice was available on preparedness and property protection together with an exhibition of protection devices.
Southern Water’s representatives were on hand to answer questions for those residents who were concerned about surface water flooding.
The newly formed, Seaford Community Flood Action Group, whose membership is made up of local residents, were there to raise awareness of its aim, which is to address flooding issues from all sources across Seaford.
The generous support of the British Red Cross and Raynet (Amateur Radio) together with local community groups from the Seaford Lifeguards, the Fire Service Community Volunteers, the Seaford 60+ Club and Seaford U3A added real value providing a clear example of the capabilities that exist within the local community to support each other when the need arises.
The local stations of East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service and HM Coastguard together with Sussex 4×4 Group braved the chilly weather to provide an outside exhibition of their capabilities and equipment.
Cllr Sam Adeniji of Seaford Town Council said, “The event was very well supported and I would like to thank the emergency services, East Sussex County Council and Lewes District Council, National Flood Forum, and all the voluntary and community groups that came together to make the event happen. Many residents found the information and advice received from all the stalls very useful. It was invaluable having all the key players together under one roof to inform residents on how to prepare a personal flood plan and better protect themselves and their property.”
Cllr Darren Grover, Newhaven Town Council said: “This was an important event that sought to improve safety within our communities. I would like to thank the volunteers and staff of the various agencies and organisations that gave up their time to make the day the success that it was, as well as Seaford Town Council and Seaford Head School for their work in organising the event – the feedback from the members of public that I spoke to was overwhelmingly positive”.
For more information about the Seaford Community Flood Action Group please email; cfaseaford@gmail.com or ring 07984 154763.
