Arun offers helping hand to flood victims

Workers at Littlehampton's Riverside Industrial Estate clearing up after their business was hit by flooding.

The council has pledged to operate a Government-led flood support initiative.

It has now set up a webpage for those who were affected by the widespread flood, which hit the area between December 1, 2013, and March 31, 2014.

Flooding victims are now being urged to log onto the page and show their interest to be included in one of more of the Government’s flood support schemes.

B&B owner, Valarie Lee by her front door after the flooding

Councillor Paul Dendle, cabinet member for environmental services at Arun, said: “It is hoped the funding that is being provided will go some way towards supporting those businesses and homes in Arun which were actually flooded. “As a local authority, we supported those affected throughout the bad weather as much as possible and now that the flooding has gone, our aim is to continue that support to help residents and businesses get back to normal as quickly as possible.

“I want to encourage all residents and businesses affected by the recent floods to register their interest online so we can get a clear indication of how many people may meet the criteria and help them access the support that is available.”

The flood support schemes that are being made available include the following:

• Business rates flooding relief

• Business support scheme

• A repair and renewal grant for businesses and residents

• Council tax discounts.

Further details on the initiatives can be found on the homepage of the Arun’s website, www.arun.gov.uk by typing ‘flood support scheme’ into the search bar.

Once the council has determined the numbers interested in the grants, a separate application form will be created with information about the criteria that they will need to meet and how to apply, together with the associated deadlines for applications to be received by Arun.

In addition, all properties that Arun is aware have suffered difficulties during the recent flooding will be sent a letter advising them of the schemes.

Funding for this scheme is coming directly from the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG).

All expressions of interest must be received by Arun before the closing date of Friday, May 2.