Mark Kelly’s fear of flooding is wrong (Tide of fear over flooding, April 15). In any case his solicitor will have explained his cheaper home is on a floodplain and to expect it.
Soakaways normally cope with rain, but the world has a sevenyear weather cycle and each seventh, three months of autumn rain overflows the soakaways and the chalk groundwater. The bournes have risen thus since time immemorial. Mr Kelly must consider the years ahead. The Caterham Bourne will flood him and close the A22 unless water is pumped to the top of the downs at Woldingham and Caterham.
It will take three months to seep down through the chalk by which time trees coming into leaf can soak up the water.
Similarly Network Rail can pump the Merstham Tunnel where the Coulsdon Bourne rises and affects railway signals.
ALAN MOODY
Croydon canal restoration group
- Send your letters to: letters@croydonguardian.co.uk
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