News release

PR014/20

19 February 2020

Recovery under way in parts of Herefordshire as response continues

Support announced for affected communities

Parts of Herefordshire continue to experience significant and widespread flooding from high river levels and deep surface flooding. A number of agencies including Herefordshire Council, Environment Agency, West Mercia Police and Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service and West Midlands Ambulance Service and health partners, are working together to protect Herefordshire residents, focusing on the most vulnerable members of the community.

With parts of Herefordshire still suffering the impacts of Storm Dennis, the recovery effort is already under way in many parts of the county.

 Councillor David Hitchiner, Leader of Herefordshire Council, said: “We have all been shocked to see the level of devastation inflicted by Storm Dennis, which has caused disruption to the entire county and untold damage to those directly affected. I would urge all residents to please follow official guidance and do not put yourself in any unnecessary risk.

“I would like to thank our partner agencies for their tireless work to protect local residents. The situation is still live but it is important that we begin planning for the recovery now so that support is in place as soon as possible.”

Using emergency provisions, the council has now confirmed that it will set up a new Community Relief Scheme, which will offer up to £500 for eligible affected properties and up to £2,500 eligible affected businesses. Applications are now open and we encourage everyone who is entitled to make an application.

Council tax relief and Business rate relief is available for properties affected by the recent floods.

For more information or to apply, please visit the Herefordshire Council website.

For the latest updates, please keep checking the Herefordshire Council website and follow @HfdsCouncil on Facebook and Twitter.

To find out more about the support and guidance available please visit www.herefordshire.gov.uk/floods

Please do not enter flood water or put yourself at unnecessary risk. If your home has been flooded and there is no threat to life, dial 01432 260000. If you are in danger, always call 999.

 

Ends

 

Herefordshire Council Communications Team

[email protected]         01432 260006

 

 

Notes to editors

 

Community Flood Recovery Grant for residential properties

The grant is for £500 and paid direct to the household.

Households are eligible where flood water has entered the habitable areas of the property, or the residence is considered unliveable for any period of time due to flooding.

The grant does not apply to empty homes, second homes or student accommodation.

 Business Flood Recovery Grant for business premises

 The grant is up to £2,500 per small / medium sized business affected, as a grant paid direct to the business.

Businesses are eligible where the business is directly impacted or has directly suffered a loss of trade as a result of the flooding that cannot be recovered from insurance.