Hello, I am contacting you on behalf of Councillor Ray Morton.

Cut Branches Hazard at Ham Brook, Honicknowle Lane Hello, please see the below from Cllr Morton. "Dear Casework Team, I am writing on behalf of my constituent, Ms Sue Rapson, to raise a serious and urgent concern regarding the current handling of rubbish, leaf litter, and cut branches when the grid over Ham Brook on Honicknowle Lane is cleared. I am extremely concerned that the present approach does not reflect best practice and is actively increasing the risk of flooding. Residents living along the bank of Ham Brook have recently experienced flooding to their homes, and it is deeply troubling to see debris repeatedly left adjacent to the watercourse. This material is then washed straight back into the brook during the next period of rainfall, undermining the purpose of the clearance work. Given the recent flooding events, I am asking that the current procedure for clearing the Ham Brook grid is formally reviewed and scrutinised as a matter of urgency. In particular, I would welcome clarification on the following points: • Why debris, leaf litter, and rubbish are not being removed from site • What assessment has been made of the flooding risk created by leaving this material beside the watercourse • Why preventative measures are not being put in place, despite the recent history of flooding affecting local residents At the very least, all residue should be removed entirely from the area. If this is not feasible, then a properly located habitat pile away from the watercourse should be considered. Leaving material directly beside the brook is clearly ineffective and directly undermines the purpose of clearing the grid in the first place. This situation is entirely avoidable. Continuing with a process that allows debris to be washed straight back into Ham Brook is unacceptable, particularly when residents homes and wellbeing are being put at risk. I would appreciate a clear response outlining: • What immediate action will be taken • How debris management at this site will be improved going forward Many thanks for your time and attention. Yours sincerely, Cllr Ray Morton" I note that the resident mentions litter and rubbish which is not dealt with by yourselves, if you can see the images below, there are large branches which have been photographed, if you can collect those. I am unsure if this land is PCC owned or not. I have attached a GGP screenshot for your review below. I look forward to your reply.