As we move into the autumn and winter months, residents may notice an increase in flooding on roads and footways during periods of heavy rainfall.

East Sussex Highways, which is responsible for highway drainage across the county, has advised that, due to financial pressures, it is currently focusing on responding to reported emergencies but will plan for routine preventative drain and gully clearance from November. This approach applies across East Sussex and is not specific to Buxted parish area.

If you encounter flooding that you believe may be caused by a blocked highway drain or gully, please report it directly to East Sussex Highways using their emergency reporting service. Providing the exact location, including a What3Words reference where possible, will assist their teams in responding quickly. Call East Sussex Highways on 0345 60 80 193. Their contact centre operates from 08:30 to 17:00 Monday to Thursday and 08:30 to 16:30 on Friday, with an emergency-only service outside these hours.

Non-emergency drainage issues can reported via their website:

Report a drainage problem | live.eastsussexhighways.com

While Buxted Parish Council is not responsible for maintaining highway drains, we are keen to understand the impact on local residents and raise concerns with the relevant authority where appropriate. We would therefore appreciate residents copying any reports to the Clerk at clerk@buxted-pc.gov.uk

By working together and reporting issues promptly, residents and the Parish Council can help ensure that flooding and drainage problems are brought to the attention of East Sussex Highways, enabling issues to be investigated and addressed as quickly as possible for the benefit of the community.

Buxted Parish Council