Posted: Monday 5 August 2019, 10:57
Work has continued overnight to lower the water level in Toddbrook Reservoir to reduce the risk to homes, businesses and the community of Whaley Bridge.
Speaking this morning, Deputy Chief Fire Officer Gavin Tomlinson said: “Our pumping operations have continued overnight using a combination of fire service high volume pumps, supported by 12” pumps provided by civil engineers.
“To date we have managed to lower the water level to just below half way and our target is to get to about 25% capacity. Engineers and specialist will still need to confirm if this is a safe level.
“The work carried out by all emergency services, partners and volunteers is phenomenal, each playing a vital role in working to resolve the incident as safely and quickly as possible.
“Miles and miles of pipe work have been laid to allow the pumps to remove the water and safely discharge it into the River Goyt, however as the water recedes we are having to reposition our pumps to ensure we continue to be effective in reducing the water level in a safe and controlled manner.
“Engineers have built two roads to allow the 3 tonne pumps to be moved closer to the side of the reservoir, in addition the same engineers at Kier Engineering also built a bridge over the lines of pipe to allow safe movement of staff.
“An army of volunteers have also been amazing with their support; they have continued to keep all responders fed and watered, in addition to filling sand bags. We can’t thank them enough for this support, it’s certainly making operations run more smoothly.
“Once again I’d like to acknowledge the continued support and resilience of the community of Whaley Bridge. To be out of your home for any length of time whilst the safety of your community is in question is beyond comprehension, but still they remain upbeat and positive. They really do need applauding for their strength of character.”
A further residents meeting is being arranged for Tuesday evening (6 August 2019 at 5pm) at Chapel High School, Chapel-en-le-Frith.
ENDS