Why is anyone surprised that the Bournes have caused flooding?
They’re a Surrey Hills geological tradition.
On average every seventh year, the A22 and Kenley Water Works suffer flooding from the Caterham Bourne.
It could have been anticipated.
Monsoon rain fell into the chalk downs last December and it’s now soaked down to reach Woldingham’s normally dry springs and rain has continued. Flooding will continue into springtime.
The various Bournes (seasonal streams) meet at Purley and the Croydon Bourne culvert cannot take their flow plus the monsoon rainfall, thus the flooding at Purley Cross.
Some crackpot scheme is needed.
I wonder if floodwater can be pumped up to the top of the downs and hopefully won’t still be rainy 3 months later, when this fills the springs again and trees roots take up water.
The Southern Overground/Network Rail could do similar with Horley Bourne which could close the Brighton Line tunnels.
Alan T. Moody; Croydon
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