Statement from Leader of Redbridge Council, Cllr Jas Athwal in response to the flash flooding on Sunday 25 July

Leader of Redbridge Council, Cllr Jas Athwal said:

“Last night, many areas across London and further afield experienced unprecedented levels of rainfall during an extremely short space of time.

 “In Redbridge, many of our communities experienced widespread flash flooding and our council teams worked through the night with Thames Water and the emergency services to support local people who needed our help and assistance. 

“Much of the water has now subsided so now our focus is on helping and supporting local people and businesses whose properties were flooded. I have this morning visited affected areas and organised urgent bulky waste collections and free skips in the affected streets.

“Our street cleansing team has been helping residents in Peel Place, Coburg Gardens and Vienna Close in Clayhall, Ilford, since 6am.  Council officers were and, continue to go door-to-door to offer help. As the clean-up begins, there are some practical measures people can and should take:

• Contact your home insurance company immediately and record evidence of all damage
• If it is safe to do so, turn off the electricity at your fuse box and take photos of the damage
• Do not use food that was affected by the floods
• Contact your insurance company before turning on your vehicle if it was affected by the flood water
• Please take extra care when travelling. Check your journey on the TfL website, and keep an eye on local media coverage and our social media channels for up-to-date information
• In an emergency call 999. If you need help or support, call Redbridge Council on 020 8554 5000 
  
  

“If we experience further heavy rainfall and you become concerned for your safety and feel you are in any danger you can also contact our Lifeline service for out-of-hours support on 020 8708 5897.

“Yesterday, as part of our contingency plans for serious incidents, we set up a rest centre at Hawkey Hall, Woodford Green, for anyone who had to leave their home. Fortunately, it was not needed, and we closed it at 00:35, but measures remain in place to reopen swiftly if necessary.

"We will continue to keep you updated with further information.”