Please see the latest SCC release.  I have also included the two previous ESC bulletins.  Jan

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Further to yesterday’s latest update, Suffolk County Council have issued the following statement.

Suffolk County Council News Release:

For immediate release: Thursday 26 October 2023
For further information contact: Kate Dodd kate.dodd@suffolk.gov.uk

More than 200 properties flooded by Storm Babet

  1. True number could be much higher as councils urge people to report all flooded premises
  2. Government funding available to those who report flooding

Interim figures show more than 200 properties in Suffolk were flooded by Storm Babet.

The number of flooded premises, including businesses and homes, is expected to be higher as Suffolk councils and emergency planners work together to compile a full list.

Councillor Matthew Hicks, Leader of Suffolk County Council, said: “It is absolutely key that all residents who suffered flood damage report the incident.

“I understand that the pressures of finding somewhere to live or work, or stripping out damaged belongings may have dominated people’s lives since Friday, but I would urge them to take the time in fill in a flood report online.

“We know that this financial support is urgently needed, and we will do everything in our power to get it out to home and businesses owners as soon as possible.”

On Wednesday, the Communities Secretary Michael Gove and Environment Secretary Thérèse Coffey announced a number of financial measures to support those that have experienced exceptional localised flooding.   

Under the measures announced: 

  1. Flooded households in affected areas can apply for up to £500 to give cash quickly to help with immediate costs.  
  2. Households and businesses significantly affected by recent flooding will be eligible for 100% council tax and business rates relief for at least three months. 
  3. Small-to-medium sized businesses in affected areas will be eligible for up to £2,500 from the Business Recovery Grant to help them return quickly to business as usual.  
  4. Eligible flood-hit property owners will be able to apply for up to £5,000 to help make their homes and businesses more resilient to future flooding via the Property Flood Resilience Repair Grant Scheme.  

The support will be made available through a scheme known as the Flood Recovery Framework, which is used in exceptional circumstances to support councils and communities following severe flooding.  

The full details of the scheme are yet to be announced by Government, including where residents can apply and who is eligible. Suffolk County Council will share updates with the public once received.

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

To report a flood visit:

www.suffolk.gov.uk/roads-and-transport/flooding-and-drainage/report-a-flood-in-suffolk