Ash Ranges Update

Ash Ranges Update

Silt Traps

North side of Chandlers Road (junction with Prospect Road):

This location has previously caused flooding on Prospect Road when blocked. The issue appears to be outside the MOD boundary; however, much of the water entering the culvert originates from the ranges. We believe this may have resulted from the council piping part of an open ditch several years ago to increase parking opposite the Heath Centre. If this pipe blocks, Prospect Road floods.

Positive note: We anticipate that the Natural Flood Management measures will reduce water flow from the ranges and help address this issue.

South of the security office – concrete structure intercepting water before Chambers Road:

Residents recalled flooding downstream “many years ago” when this structure was silted up during heavy rainfall. This is a large silt trap inside the Range Danger Area designed to prevent silt runoff from the ranges. It does not affect downstream water flow and is cleared periodically. There is currently no sign of runoff.

Tracks and Paths

Overgrown emergency access route off Balmoral Road:

This leads to a legacy barrier that is no longer used. The long-term plan is to remove the barrier. It is not an emergency access route.

Blocked/Overflowing Ditches

Ditch north of Chandlers Road:

Reportedly caused flooding in Newland Drive when blocked. We believe this relates to the first issue noted above.

Ditches east of Crescent Lane:

These reportedly overflow and may cause flooding in Crescent Lane, possibly due to a downstream blocked pipe outside the ranges. Our Flood Investigation team will investigate and contact us if relevant to MOD.

Update: We believe this is linked to a culvert taking water under adjacent gardens to the canal (Grid SU8955752110), which is not on MOD land.

Trees and Firebreaks

Newlands Drive:

A resident raised concerns about trees overhanging their property, reportedly from a firebreak along the tree line east of the property. This area is adjacent to a footpath that is cut annually. Currently, no trees overhang properties here. Two large oak trees opposite Newlands Drive are touching BT cables; a contractor has been engaged to cut them back.

Old St John’s Ambulance Station:

Tree growth in this area will be cut back during the next Grounds Management visit as a goodwill gesture.