Last Updated on 12 December 2024
The Raynes Park area has experienced flooding almost every summer over the past 15 years. There was significant rainfall in the summer of 2021 which resulted in flooding to infrastructure and over 120 properties. This is nothing new, as according to an article in the Raynes Park and West Barnes Residents’ Association newsletter “even in the early 19th century, Edward Rayne had been constantly occupied with it in wet seasons, employing a considerable labour force to throw water off his heavy clay fields and to dig ditches and drains.”
Recent developments such as that on the Atkinson Morley site together with the wholesale paving over of front gardens have only exacerbated the situation.
Following a successful bid for initial funding, Merton Council has started working with partners including Thames Water, the Environment Agency, and Network Rail on a two-year flood alleviation study for Raynes Park. The study, which started in spring 2024 and will conclude in spring 2026 aims to see if it is feasible to alleviate flooding in the area and what would be required to do so.
If alleviation proves feasible, later phases of the project will look to secure funding to deliver the necessary improvements, which may be implemented in combination with other public realm enhancements to improve the town centre. More information is available on the Council’s website.
