Residents fear flooding could hit their homes at Northampton caravan sites

Residents of Cogenhoe Mill caravan site and Billing Aquadrome have voiced their concerns on social media about the potential flooding of their properties after heavy rain has caused rising river levels.

A flood warning has been issued by the government today (Friday) saying flooding is 'expected' and that 'immediate action' is required at the Cogenhoe site.

One resident said on Facebook: "9am. The Nene very high plus the field still flooded."

Another wrote: "Fingers crossed it doesn't get as bad as last time."

The government's warning goes on to say that some roads in the area are already flooded, low-lying properties near the River Nene are most at risk and that more rain is expected over the weekend.

It also says that properties at the Cogenhoe site are expected to continue to be affected by the 'deteriorating weather conditions'.

The warning reads: "Heavy rain has fallen on the River Nene catchment over the past 24-36 hours. No further rainfall is forecast for today (Friday) and we are monitoring the forecast for tomorrow (Saturday).

"The rising river levels have already caused flooding of low-lying land and roads in the area, and due to the deteriorating weather conditions we now expect properties at Cogenhoe Caravan Site to continue to be affected.

"Low-lying properties near the river are most at risk. Levels will remain high for a few days and more rainfall is forecast over the weekend.

"Remain safe and be aware of your local surroundings, and avoid contact with flood water. Avoid riverside paths and please stay away from river embankments."

Officials are out in the area to check the flood defences, clear blockages, and assist the emergency services and council.

An Environment Agency spokesman said: “Higher-than-normal water levels on the River Nene in Northamptonshire have seen us issue a flood warning flood warning for Cogenhoe Mill caravan park as a precaution, to ensure residents are aware of the risk. There is no flood warning or alert for Billing Aquadrome.

“We are regulating the flow of water along the Nene, and holding water in the Washlands flood storage area, which is currently 25 per cent full.

“However, current levels are not as high as seen in the area over the Christmas period.

"We advise people to stay away from swollen rivers and never walk or drive through flood water as just 30cm of flowing water is enough to move your car.

“If you see flooding, please phone our 24-hour free incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60.

Flood Alerts indicate that people should be aware. Flood Warnings mean that flooding is expected and people should take action to stay safe.

“Please check your local flood risk and sign up for free flood warnings if you don’t already receive them – call Floodline on 0345 988 1188.”

A new flood warning update is set to be released tomorrow, or if the situation changes before then.

Northampton Borough Council has been contacted for comment.

In December, Billing Aquadrome in Crow Lane was evacuated on Christmas Eve (December 24) after heavy rainfall the day before caused parts of the park to be five foot deep in flood water.

Emergency services were called to rescue around 250 people stuck in their homes and around 1,000 residents had to evacuate the site.