Politics & Council · Swindon
Gorse Hill residents demand action as flooding continues to hit Gipsy Lane
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Residents in Gorse Hill are calling for a permanent solution to long-standing flooding issues on Gipsy Lane that continue to damage homes and vehicles.
Persistent flooding on Gipsy Lane in Gorse Hill has become a significant source of distress for residents, with reports of damage to both private property and vehicles caused by repeated surface water accumulation. The issue has become so severe that residents say even minor rainfall can leave the road impassable and driveways completely submerged.
Gorse Hill ward councillor Princia Fernandes has highlighted that the flooding is not a recent development restricted to exceptional weather events. Despite the road being notably affected during Storm Austen on Friday, October 23, Cllr Fernandes stressed that the drainage failure is a chronic problem that has plagued the area for years.
The impact on local life is considerable, with some residents finding themselves unable to leave their homes during heavy downpours. Others have reported damage to property and cars parked on their driveways, leading to growing frustration over the lack of a permanent resolution.
Council investigation status
The issue of local drainage was previously raised by Cllr Fernandes with the cabinet member for highways and transport, Cllr Nick Gardiner, in July 2026. At that time, it was acknowledged that a comprehensive drainage diagnostic report was required to review historical works, assess the system's capacity, and identify any structural defects underground. This report was expected to outline costed options for a permanent fix.
However, as of late October 2026, residents report that the flooding continues unabated. Cllr Fernandes has expressed concern over the lack of visible progress, noting that while gully trucks may provide a short-term, temporary measure, they do not resolve the underlying drainage failures.
A spokesperson for Swindon Borough Council has stated that a crew has been scheduled to visit the site to investigate the ongoing drainage issues. Cllr Fernandes has pledged to continue pressing the local authority until a long-term solution is successfully implemented to protect the homes and belongings of her constituents.
Source: Swindon Advertiser - Politics · View original