Welcome to the first update of 2012. I've not really got too much to complain about right now; yes, there is a puddle, but this morning there was a small mound poking out above the water, which meant that my shoes didn't get muddy. However, if it rains this afternoon, I think I'm in trouble. Do you think the local council would supply me with some wellies?
By the looks of things, significant work is being carried at Lake Meadows to address the drainage issues I've been reporting on since January 2011. These photos were taken at 8:15 this morning. I only hope the work being carried out means we finally see an end to puddlewatch, but you can never be sure.
I've not had to report on puddlewatch for 3 months, but with heavy rain last night, not to mention this morning, the drainage problem at Lake Meadows has returned.
1. Heading towards Billericay station
2. Same view
4. Same view as 3
5. Side of skate ramps
The puddle is still there. Thankfully it's not as big as yesterday, although rain is forecast.
I didn't think I'd have to report on this puddle again, but unfortunately I do. It rained yesterday in Billericay, and it appears the drain in Lake Meadows is blocked. Someone suggested to me that there isn't actually a drain there; it's just a drain lid. I'm sure that isn't the case, but it appears that the fix put in place previously has not had its desired effect.
How would you fix this? Please leave a comment below if you have an idea. A soakaway seems like a good option, but I'm no drainage expert. Maybe there's a reason why this hasn't been considered (perhaps it would be too close to the ramps or the fencing).
Below is the drain. As you can see, it's not working.
It looks like the drain may be blocked. I hope this isn't a return to those dark days in January.
Puddlewatch is currently on the ThisIsTotalEssex home page, and you can view the article here.
Complaints may have been ignored in the past but Basildon Borough Council have been quick to act in light of the recent story in the Billericay & Wickford Gazette. As you can see from the pictures, the puddle has disappeared completely, and a drain has been installed. At least, I think it's a new drain, unless it was previously blocked and hidden under mud and water. Maybe I took too many pictures of the drain, but it's a good feeling seeing it in place. It seems to be doing the job so far. The first test will be the next time it rains, but it was the solution I was expecting to see. The surrounding ground is still quite muddy, but at least people don't have to walk on there anymore.
I even wore my new pair of shoes to work (it's dress down Friday), and they not only stayed dry, but clean too!Thanks to Chris Richards who picked up the story online, and to every one who has been following #puddlewatch!
