Great Cornard petition urges action from Suffolk Highways to address flooding hotspot

An appeal for action in response to a recurring hotspot for flooding has been launched by frustrated Suffolk villagers.

Great Cornard resident Jamie Hillsden set up a petition last week, calling on Suffolk Highways to address flooding problems that have blighted Poplar Road.

Photos shared on social media in recent months have revealed large pools of standing water stretching across the full width of the road, particularly at its intersection with Hawthorn Road.

The issue was most prevalent during the succession of storms that brought torrential rain to Suffolk in late 2023 and the early part of this year.

Mr Hillsden urged Suffolk County Council to commit to remedial repairs at Poplar Road, under its legal responsibilities as part of the Highways Act, and confirm a time-frame for doing so.

“This road has been repeatedly flooded for many months and poses a risk to drivers and damage to their vehicles,” he said.

“It also presents an issue for traffic flow around Great Cornard.

“Despite repeated contact from residents regarding the flooding to both the council and our Suffolk county councillor, no action appears to have been taken.

“Maintenance of this road falls within the responsibility of Suffolk County Council.

“This includes repairing defects such as inadequate drainage or flooding on the highway, as well as any temporary safety signage indicating any risk presented by flooding.”

After its first week, the petition, which is running on the campaign website Change.org, had accrued more than 140 signatures.

SuffolkNews contacted Suffolk Highways for comment on the petition for Poplar Road in Great Cornard, but did not receive a response at the time of going to print.