Ryedale District Council is working with the agencies of the North Yorkshire Local Resilience Forum (NYLRF) to respond to the high river and ground water levels affecting Malton, Norton and Old Malton.

Three pumps are currently deployed in Old Malton, a further three in Malton and one in Norton to deal with surface water caused by the recent wet weather. The multi-agency response has been activated to take action to prevent flooding as the River Derwent through Malton has been very high. Whilst it is now dropping, it could rise again.

Councillor Keane Duncan, Leader of Ryedale District Council, said: “We are working closely with our partners including Environment Agency, Yorkshire Water and North Yorkshire County Council to deliver the multi-agency pump plan for Malton, Norton and Old Malton to ensure we respond quickly and efficiently to the situation. This includes requesting and deploying additional pumps as required.

“Whilst snow and rain continues to be forecast over the next few days, it is within the parameters that we would expect in winter and that we have dealt with many times before.

“At this stage there is no expectation that any properties will be affected by flooding, or any roads closed. There is one footpath closed on Church Street in Norton, but this is because there is a pump placed there.

“We will continue to keep a careful watch and the team is ready to respond quickly if necessary.

“We would also continue to remind people to stay at home unless absolutely necessary. For anyone making an essential journey, please take extra care.”

Local Resilience Forum The North Yorkshire Local Resilience Forum (NYLFR) is a partnership of local agencies working together to manage emergencies. NYLRF covers the whole of North Yorkshire and York.