Forum to tackle Hartlepool flooding

Environmental experts are meeting on Tuesday to discuss how to combat long-standing flooding problems in Hartlepool.

For several years many parts of the town has suffered from flood problems, and in downpours during August the town's Asda superstore and hospital experienced water damage.

Parts of the town that have suffered worst are West View, Rift House, Valley Drive and Station Lane areas of the town.

Now it is hoped a series of public meetings could help to find a solution to the problem.

Several public meetings took place in August with residents giving their views on what should be done.

Representatives from the Environment Agency, Northumbrian Water, and Hartlepool Council will attend a Environmental Stewardship and Regeneration Scrutiny Forum on Tuesday.

Cleaning system

It will look at possible solutions to protect the town from flooding.

Ideas include improving the town's gulley cleaning system - a new system of cleaning and maintenance has been suggested and will start soon.

Ian Parker, head of technical services at Hartlepool Council, said: "The aim is to bring all the experts together before council members and the public to see ways in which we can work better together.

"We want members of the public to come along."

A report with recommendations will be published in October.