The External Scrutiny Committee met to discuss flood risk management and water quality in Redbridge, receiving updates from the Environment Agency and Thames Water. The committee also noted a verbal update from the Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

Update from the Environment Agency and Thames Water

The committee received comprehensive updates from the Environment Agency (EA) and Thames Water (TW) regarding their work in Redbridge to mitigate flood risks and improve water quality.

The EA presented on the River Roding Project, which aims to reduce flood risk to over 1400 residential properties in Woodford and Ilford. Key developments in 2024 included the signing of a contract, vegetation clearance, and site setup. The project involves constructing reinforced concrete control structures and improving flood embankments. The EA also highlighted other flood alleviation schemes in Redbridge, such as the Clayhall flood alleviation scheme and the Westwood Recreation Ground River Restoration and flood reduction scheme, which aims to restore the river to a free-flowing state, allowing for additional storage during high flows and promoting a more natural environment. Members raised concerns about climate change impacts and the need for robust flood mitigation. The EA confirmed that any works near main rivers undergo a permitting process that considers climate change modelling.

Thames Water discussed their efforts to address flooding, Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs), and reduce storm discharges. They noted that Redbridge was significantly affected by the July 2021 storms, with 53 reported flooding incidents. The formation of the London Surface Water Strategic Group was highlighted as a collaborative effort to manage surface water at a London-wide scale. TW also presented data on sewer blockages in Redbridge, identifying it as a high blockage area for fat, grease, paper, and rags. Improvement schemes for Redbridge's sewage treatment works and Combined Storm Overflows are included in their Asset Management Plan 2025-2030. Members expressed significant concern about sewage leakages into rivers and the resulting pollution. TW stated that 20,000 sewer depth monitors have been installed to proactively identify and address potential blockages and leaks, and a business case is being drafted for a five-year programme to reduce pollution.

Representatives from Thames 21 and the River Roding Trust also contributed, highlighting concerns about sewage pollution in the River Roding. A recent survey indicated that a high percentage of residents believe the river should be safe for swimming. Sampling results showed elevated levels of E. coli and Enterococci at five out of six sites, which is almost certainly linked to sewage pollution. They urged the EA to work more proactively to improve river cleanliness and safety.

The committee resolved to note the presentations and discussions, receive written responses to questions posed to the EA and TW, and receive data on serious leakages and TW's investment in sewage and water infrastructure in Redbridge.

Update from Overview and Scrutiny Committee

Councillor D. Morgan-Thomas, Chair of the External Scrutiny Committee, provided a verbal update on the Overview and Scrutiny Committee's meeting on 5 November 2024. The committee considered pre-decision items and outcome reports from the Homes and Neighbourhoods Policy Development Committee concerning the Homelessness and Rough Sleeper Strategy and Access and Accessibility: Libraries. The Overview and Scrutiny Committee's next meeting is scheduled for 12 December 2024. The committee resolved to note this verbal update.