Coun. David Whipp says immediate work is needed on a culvert below Skipton Road to avoid flooding in the area near a new development on the Crownest Industrial Estate.

"Building work has raised the ground level on land next to Ravenscroft Way. In the past, water has flooded onto this area during heavy rainfall, helping prevent flooding in nearby homes," said Coun. Whipp. "Despite this, when there have been problems with the culvert which drains the land, property in Edward Street has been inundated.

"When planning permission was given for the new development, councillors insisted on a condition that work was carried out to improve this culvert. An agreement for this work should have been in place before building work started, but this hasn't been done.

"Improving the trash screen at the entrance to the culvert and upgrading any narrow sections of the underground pipe will reduce the risk of flooding. It's vital this work is done urgently.

"I've asked council planners to make sure the developers stick to the agreement imposed. Pendle Council has organised a camera inspection of the underground drain. With work being carried out on the filling station site which the culvert passes under, it's a good time for the work to be done."

Coun. Whipp has asked for a report to go to the next West Craven Area Committee meeting if it is not sorted out soon.