UNDERGROUND investigations are to be carried out to try to reduce long-running drainage failings that have left York at increased risk of flooding.

The city council's environment boss has called for a new report into the problems, many of which date back decades, after the city's drains were again left unable to cope during recent heavy rain.

Holgate Road was among the streets badly affected, particularly in its lowest stretch, near The Fox pub. These photographs taken by The Press show the blockages in a number of drains in the street earlier this week.

York Press:

Cllr Andrew Waller, City of York Council's executive member for environment, said: "Keeping gulleys clear is important for the council to play its part in tackling rain flooding, and we are focussing on improving this frontline service.

"I have asked that a report comes forward on tackling deep rooted problems in some of our drainage systems, involving underground investigations. We must ensure that there are not blockages further down the pipeline and work alongside partners like Yorkshire Water and the Drainage Boards."

York Press:

Flooding has been a recurring issue near The Fox in Holgate Road, as in this 2014 photo

The council has reduced its gulley-cleaning programme in recent years, following national funding cuts, with most main roads treated once a year. Others are cleaned only in response to reports from the public.

After seeing the photographs from Holgate Road, the council's head of operations Russell Stone, said further cleaning had been arranged there.

York Press:

Cllr Andrew Waller, left, and Russell Stone, right

A council report in 2012 said generations of under-investment and neglect had left York at increased risk of floods, with the drainage impact of large developments often ignored and funding cuts to gulley-cleaning exacerbating the risk.

The report said drains were unable to cope with even minor floods, and it has been estimated it would cost £5 million to bring them up to standard.

Officials said the council could face compensation claims unless action were taken.

To report a drainage or gulley problem, email ycc@york.gov.uk or phone 01904 551551.