Flooding across the borough

Flooding in Littleborough

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Parts of Rochdale were under water this weekend (Saturday 14 November and Sunday 15 November) as heavy rain fell across the region.

Firefighters were called to Middleton several times as cars attempted to make their way through standing water on the road.

Three vehicles lost power on Manchester Old Road at around 1am on Sunday 15 November, as water affected the electrics. During one incident, firefighters had to carry an elderly man and woman to safety.

Crews then returned to the area at 7am on the same day, after another vehicle was stranded and needed the assistance of the Fire Service’s boat team to push it so the driver could reach safety.

In Rochdale, at around 11pm on Sunday, the fire service spent an hour on Sweet Briar Close pumping water away that was affecting properties.

Group Manager Dean Nankivell said: “We have had a large amount of rainfall and we are expecting more so we would encourage people to think about taking simple steps to keep themselves and their family safe.

“Don’t make unnecessary journeys and if you do have to drive, take extra care on the road and don’t attempt to drive through water if you are unsure of the depth. Check out local news bulletins to keep up-to-date with road closures, flooding and forecasts.

“We’ve had a handful of incidents overnight related to the heavy rain but thankfully everyone involved is ok and we want to keep it that way.”

Also in Rochdale, the newly opened CockaDoodleMoo restaurant on Yorkshire Street had to close due to flooding in the cellar. Staff apologised for the closure.

The River Roch also reached new levels as the heavy rain caused the river levels to rise.

In Littleborough, residents in Shore, Rakewood, Ealees and Smithy Bridge were all affected. Residents on Calder Avenue had to “fight to keep the water from entering their houses”.

One resident living on Dearden Street, Littleborough said: “Around 12 months or so ago we were told that Rochdale Council were going to create a drain to soak away water on the recce/football field next to Littleborough Park to alleviate flooding around Calderbrook.

“When people complained about possible flooding of the area and nearby houses we were told that this possibility would only be a ‘one in a hundred years event’.

“The first time we get heavy rain and the ‘recce’ is underwater and nearby properties are being warned to take flood prevention measures. So it seems that is now only a one in one month’s event as they have only just finished (or have they)?

“Well done RMBC and other official departments for messing things up again, but we should be used to it by now.”

Rochdale Council did not respond to a request for comment.