MP calls for further action and a review after flooding in East Devon

Simon Jupp MP is calling for the public bodies involved in the response to last week’s flooding in East Devon to review their response and provide further support to residents.

Over 60 properties were flooded when the Otter Valley was overwhelmed by intense rainfall of up to 130mm across a few hours, which was markedly worse than a similar event in 2008. Newton Poppleford, Tipton St John, Metcombe and Venn Ottery were significantly impacted, including severe damage to some properties.

Following the flooding, East Devon’s MP met with residents of Newton Poppleford today to assess the situation and review the support provided by public authorities. Speaking with residents, they all shared serious concern that similar flooding could happen again and that further action needs to be taken to better protect the local area.

Simon Jupp MP is calling for a multi-agency response which covers both short and medium-term issues ranging from blocked drains to damaged road surfaces. East Devon’s MP has contacted the Environment Agency, Devon County Council, East Devon District Council and the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs to push for urgent action.

Simon Jupp MP also held an emergency meeting with school leaders at Tipton St John Primary School to assess the damage incurred, following up in a priority meeting with Department for Education minister Baroness Barran regarding the need to rebuild the school on a safe site. Additionally, Simon Jupp MP has requested a meeting to discuss the Environment Agency’s flood management plan for the area and actions they plan to take following the flooding last week.

Simon Jupp, MP for East Devon, said: “I want to put on record my huge thanks to the staff from local councils and various organisations, as well as selfless residents and volunteers, who have been supporting those impacted by the terrible flash floods which occurred last week. It was heart-breaking to see the damage and I will do what I can to help. With over 60 homes flooded and Tipton St John Primary School severely damaged, I am pursuing a comprehensive multi-agency response to provide support and a plan for the future. That is what residents deserve.”