The new Morpeth flood defences have been put to the test twice in the last week following heavy rains.  The Environment Agency twice closed the flood gate protecting High Stanners with river levels rising above 26m at their peak. The dam protecting Morpeth was also put in to use with fire crews out at High Stanners and Middle Greens to pump standing water from roads into the river.

As levels reached their peak on Tuesday 5th January the Oldgate Bridge was closed and sand bags were requested from Northumberland County Council in case river levels continued to rise.  Water edged close to the entrance to the leisure centre, flooding the car park.

As can often be the case for emergencies not everything seems to have gone to plan.  Residents in High Stanners reported that the Environment Agency were very slow to close the flood gate, with rumours that the agencies staff had difficulty reaching the town from their headquarters due to flooding on local roads and the associated diversions.  Last night there were also questions as to whether debris in the river had impacted on the damn and also whether there was a need for flood wardens to be on patrol to answer any questions from local residents. 

Local County Councillor David Bawn said, “It is very reassuring that the Flood Defences held last night, after a very worryingly high surge in the river. Praise must be given to the Environment Agency staff who did their jobs and protected the Town.

“However one lesson to be learned was the difficulty in getting information disseminated to affected residents. With sometimes contradictory messages being sent out about the dam’s operation and when it was closed. 

“I am sure a review of the operation of the system in light of the issues raised during this incident would be sensible.”