Home / Disasters and Accidents / Dorset Council's Flood Gate Blunder Sparks Chaos
Dorset Council's Flood Gate Blunder Sparks Chaos
2 Mar
Summary
- Council took over flood gates, replacing efficient volunteers.
- Motorists face thousands in repair bills due to floodwater.
- Villagers call council response 'pathetic' and 'useless'.
In the village of Hammoon, Dorset, a dispute has erupted between residents, motorists, and the county council over flood gate management. For years, local volunteers managed floodgates over the River Stour, effectively preventing vehicles from entering dangerous floodwater. This system was praised for its efficiency and success in avoiding stranded vehicles and costly repairs.
Last autumn, Dorset Council intervened, citing health and safety concerns regarding volunteers operating gates on the highway. The council assumed control, promising rapid response within two hours to close the gates when notified by the parish council. However, during the rainy winter of 2025/6, this new system proved ineffective, with gates repeatedly not closed in time.
Numerous vehicles became stuck in the floodwater, costing motorists thousands in repairs and recovery. Residents have criticized the council's response as slow and inadequate, with one villager noting up to 10 stranded vehicles in a single three-week period. The council states they are exploring enhanced warning systems, but locals argue the previous volunteer system was far superior and prevented these costly issues.
