After a period of persistent heavy rainfall, two schools in Redford Close and Chailey Close in Eastbourne began experiencing significant flooding outside their entrances.
Water was collecting rapidly during storms, causing disruption and creating hazards for pupils, parents, and staff during some of the busiest times of the school day.
To address the issue, teams worked closely with the Environment Agency to develop a proactive solution that would not only tackle the immediate flooding but also prevent similar problems in the future.
At Redford Close, the focus was on diverting water away from the school gates. A large tarmac berm was installed, carefully shaped to guide rainwater away from the footway and towards the nearby drainage system. This simple intervention has already made a noticeable difference, preventing water from pooling where families walk.
Chailey Close required a more extensive approach. Engineers added deep acro drains to improve the capacity of the drainage system and help manage large volumes of water more effectively. The kerb line was raised to guide surface water into the new drains rather than allowing it to spread across the entrance. A defective drain cover was also replaced with a larger, more efficient one, and the school entrance lettering was refreshed to give the area a cleaner, clearer appearance.
Beyond both school sites, neighbouring roads were inspected to ensure that drains were clear and functioning properly, helping to maintain effective water flow throughout the wider area.
Since the works were completed, the improvements have already proven their worth. Even during further heavy rainfall, both school entrances have remained clear and accessible, with no further flooding reported.
This project highlights the impact of swift, collaborative action—bringing together local teams and the Environment Agency to resolve an issue that directly affects everyday family life. Thanks to these efforts, pupils and parents can now arrive at school safely, whatever the weather.