The River Trent
South and North Clifton are located on the flood plain of the River Trent. South Clifton has not seen floods for over seventy (70) years. A significant inundation in 1947 was the last flood which affected the area.
Following this, in the 1950’s, a series of flood banks were constructed to help prevent a repeat.
The Defences.
There are two flood banks: the “Minor defence” formerly called the once in a 10-year defence and the “Major Defence” hitherto the once in 100-year defence. The minor defence runs along the side of the actual river where low ground necessitated its construction. The major defence has been built in between areas of high ground some way back from the river.
The defence also consists of aeras of land which can be flooded e.g. to the south of Marshgate Farm in the gravel pit area. A series of Pumps. Locks and Gates control access to these and other areas. The lastest information from the Environment Agency is available Here
Despite record rainfall levels in 2000, 2007, 2012 and 2019 the village has seen no flooding from the river.
Flood Banks
Construction Banks are made from compacted clay, topped with soil. Damage to the flood banks is a criminal offence. This includes action or inaction by landowners on whose land the bank is.Rabbits and badgers can dig into the core and so should be reported for control. Moles are surface burrowers which cause less damage but are controlled.
Inspection Banks are inspected by the Environment Agency at least 4 times per annum
Flood Wardens The Parish Council is looking to appoint at least one flood warden.
Insurance There should be no issue with insurance as the village has not been flooded due to the
effectiveness of the major defences in the last 70 years. If anyone has any difficulty with getting insurance at a sensible cost then contacting an insurance broker or using Money Supermarket or Compare the Market is highly recommended.
Taken from an article written by Adrian Johnston (Fomer Chair of the Parish Council) in the Spring 2020 edition of The Clifton & Spalding Newsletter. The full Article is available by clicking on the PDf File below