Flooding in Lanchester **
It's been horrible to see that Lanchester has been hit so badly by flooding again. Longstanding residents will be aware of the flooding issues in Lanchester but it is sad nonetheless to see so many businesses and families impacted. It is always so shocking when it happens.
I know that Councillor Doug Oliver has been out there on the ground, hardworking as ever.
Thanks also to local Firefighters who have done heroic work clearing the drains and getting everything in order for residents. My team and I have been in contact with them as well as those at Durham County Council.
The Government has also made flood recovery funding available via local authorities for households and small busineses. This amounts to:
1.) Cash Grants of up to £500 to help flooded households with immediate cots
2.) 100% Council Tax and Business Rate relief for households and businesses significantly affected for at least 3 months
3.) Up to £2,500 in grants for small and medium sized businesses to help them get back on their feet
4.) Up to £5,000 for property owners hit by floods to help make their homes more resilient to future flooding.
Full Details here: http://www.gov.uk/.../flood-recovery-framework-guidance.../
DCC have a dedicated point of contact for flooding assistance. Please do not hesitate to contact them.
For Assistance:
Councillor Doug Oliver: Douglas.oliver@durham.gov.uk
Councillor Mike McGaun: Michael.mcgaun@durham.gov.uk
DCC Civil Contingencies Team: civilcontingenciesunit@durham.gov.uk
After the immediate impact there will be long-lasting challenges getting everything back in order even once the dust settles. If you have been affected and insurance companies are causing you problems, do not hesitate to contact my office and my team and I would be more than happy to help.
I understand this must be an incredibly stressful time for those affected. If there is every any further assistance you need, then you can always get in touch via richardholden.org.uk/contact and I will help however I can.