Funding available for projects to prevent flooding in West Sussex

Community projects aiming to prevent flooding in West Sussex can now bid for a share of £500,000 council funding.
Flooding in Pulborough on Boxing Day 2013Flooding in Pulborough on Boxing Day 2013
Flooding in Pulborough on Boxing Day 2013

West Sussex County Council has made the money available through the third phase of Operation Watershed, a scheme which has already helped 287 community flood projects across the county between 2013 and 2015.

Work completed included ditch maintenance, providing new drainage channels and repairing pipes and culverts.

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Operation Watershed has also aided in the establishment of 21 flood action groups.

The criteria used to assess applications are: it addresses recognised surface or groundwater flooding issues, it has strong community support, it demonstrates value for money, and will realise benefits to the community.

Community groups, volunteer groups, and both town and parish councils within West Sussex are all eligible to apply.

John O’Brien, WSCC’s cabinet member for highways and transport said: “Operation Watershed helped protect thousands of homes from flooding and other flood related issues.

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“It was so well received by communities and we were keen to bring it back again.

“If your community has a flood related issue which you think Operation Watershed can help with, please get in touch.”

All applications need support from their local county councillor.

In previous years the Operation Watershed Active Communities Fund was oversubscribed, so residents are being urged to submit their bid as early as possible.

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For more information visit our website www.westsussex.gov.uk/watershed or email [email protected]

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