The External Scrutiny Committee met to discuss flood risk management and water quality in Redbridge, receiving updates from the Environment Agency and Thames Water. Key concerns raised included the impact of climate change on flooding, sewage pollution in local rivers, and the effectiveness of current mitigation strategies.

Flood Risk and River Roding Project

The Environment Agency (EA) provided an update on the River Roding Project, which aims to reduce flood risk to over 1400 residential properties in Woodford and Ilford. Significant progress in 2024 included the signing of a contract, vegetation clearance, and the establishment of access points. 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 the impact of climate change on weather patterns and the need for effective mitigation. The EA explained that works around main rivers require a permitting process that considers climate change modelling. They also noted that new developments since 2012 are expected to be flood-protected, and current measures are primarily focused on protecting older properties.

Thames Water and River Pollution

Thames Water (TW) presented on their efforts to manage flooding, collaborative working, and reduce storm discharges. The company acknowledged that Redbridge was significantly affected by the extreme storms in July 2021, with 53 reported flooding incidents on 25 July. A London Surface Water Strategic Group has been formed to develop a London-wide strategy for managing surface water, which will identify strategic flood risk areas and sub-divide London into surface water catchments.

Concerns were raised by committee members regarding the level and number of sewage leakages into rivers. TW stated that 20,000 sewer depth monitors have been installed to proactively analyse flows and prevent blockages and leakages. They are also drafting a business case for a five-year programme to tackle leakages and reduce pollution. Redbridge was identified as the 10th highest blockage area for fat and grease and 12th for paper and rags.

Representatives from Thames 21 and the River Roding Trust presented their findings on river water quality. Will Oliver from Thames 21 reported that a recent survey indicated 90% of respondents felt the river should be safe for swimming. Samples taken from five sites between May and September showed levels of E. coli and Enterococci far higher than safe thresholds for swimming, which is almost certainly linked to sewage pollution. Paul Powlesland from the River Roding Trust highlighted the need for the EA to work more proactively and mentioned discovering an illegal outfall spillage.

The committee resolved to note the presentations and discussions, receive written responses to questions raised by the Vice Chair, and receive data on serious leakages and response times from Thames Water. They also requested information on Thames Water's investment in sewage and water infrastructure in Redbridge over the past five years and projected spend for the next three years.

Other Business

The committee also received a verbal update from the Overview and Scrutiny Committee. Dates for future meetings were confirmed, with upcoming topics including updates from the Metropolitan Police, Vision, the Youth Council, and the Community Safety Partnership.