The Little Jockey pub in Little Mill, Monmouthshire, was all set for a big comeback after being closed for over a year, but Mother Nature had other plans! Just as the pub was about to open its doors on December 1st, heavy rains from Storm Claudia flooded the village, forcing a delay. A frustrating wait, but that didn’t stop the celebrations from going ahead on December 6th!
Local councillor Tony Kear isn’t letting this issue slide. He’s calling for action over a “long-standing” problem with a nearby brook and blocked drains that seem to contribute to recurring floods. Kear is pushing the Monmouthshire County Council to take proactive steps in clearing these trouble spots, especially with fears of more bad weather ahead.
Cllr Catrin Maby, responsible for climate change and highways, acknowledged the challenges, pointing out that storm warnings prompt them to check and clear known spots. However, the swift accumulation of debris during storms can make matters worse. She also pointed out that private landowners need to maintain their watercourses properly to prevent downstream impacts.
Meanwhile, concerns about land ownership disputes and highway water run-off continue to stir discussions. Cllr Kear, alongside fellow ward representative Cllr Meirion Howells, is keen to meet with Maby to tackle these ongoing issues.
Here’s hoping The Little Jockey is now in for smooth sailing as it welcomes locals back to the heart of their community. Cheers to overcoming storms and enjoying a pint with friends! 🍻