Flood Risk Is Rising – Here’s How Bassetlaw Is Fighting Back
Flooding isn't some distant problem we see on the news. It's here — in Retford, Worksop, Dunham-on-Trent — and it's becoming more frequent, more severe, and more disruptive. The good news? Bassetlaw District Council is taking real, practical steps to prepare communities before the next storm hits.
🛠️ Community Flood Resilience Stores Expanded
Bassetlaw’s Community Flood Resilience Stores have now been extended, with new locations added in Retford and Dunham-on-Trent. These stores hold sandbags, tools, and essential kit for local use when flood alerts are issued.
It’s a straightforward, proactive move that empowers residents to act early — not after the damage is done.
These containers aren’t there for show. They’re there for when the water starts to rise and every minute matters.
🏗️ Building Near Rivers? Know the Rules
Alongside preparation comes prevention.
The Environment Agency has issued clear warnings for anyone building near rivers or flood defences: unauthorised work can cause serious knock-on effects — not just to your property, but to your neighbours and your wider community.
If you’re planning work near a watercourse, check whether an environmental permit is needed. Failing to do so could mean fines or enforcement action.
It’s not about red tape — it’s about risk. Get it wrong, and a well-meant project could make the next flood far worse.
📍 Why This Matters
The climate is changing, and Bassetlaw isn’t exempt. The rainfall is heavier. The ground saturates faster. And once the water starts moving, there’s no time to make up for lost preparation.
Local councils can only do so much. The rest comes down to residents being informed, equipped, and aware of the risks.
✅ What You Can Do
- Find out where your nearest Flood Resilience Store is
- Use the gov.uk flood risk checker to assess your property
- Avoid any building work near rivers without checking legal requirements
- Speak with neighbours about local response plans — a prepared community is a safer one
🧭 Final Thought
Floods don’t wait for permission — but they don’t have to catch us off guard either.
Bassetlaw is stepping up. And if we all take a few sensible steps, we’ll be better placed to protect our homes, our neighbours, and our future.
