Last month in Rye News we asked why there’s always flooding on Rye’s Town Salts, even when there’s been no rain. The mystery has now been solved, but more examination work on the nearby road is needed says the Environment Agency.
On 2 July Rodney Booth wrote, “Having walked the footpath between Rye Bowls Club and the new orchard, I’m worried about the continuing flood of sea water escaping onto The Salts. This small area always floods during high tides killing the grass and preventing the general public from using this area.”
A spokesperson for Environment Agency explained the most likely cause is a tidal flap at Simmons Quay not closing fully. “During high tides, this is allowing seawater to back up through the drainage system and emerge on the Town Salts. Following previous reports of flooding, the EA inspected the tidal flap and recently returned to the site to ensure it was closed as fully as possible.”
“At the same time, the team are working with National Highways and East Sussex Highways to better understand the drainage network in this area and establish responsibility for the relevant assets,” said the spokesperson. “One possibility is the drainage system is connected to highway infrastructure associated with the A259, given the presence of nearby road gullies. We are discussing whether further joint investigations, including a site visit, would help clarify the source of the flooding and any future maintenance responsibilities.”
Many thanks to Rodney Booth for the before and after pictures.
Image Credits: Rodney Booth .