RESIDENTS living in the Howsell Road area of Malvern Link say that flash flooding which occurred during heavy rain last week should not have happened if a stream was kept clear of debris.

The stream, which flows between Lower Quest Hills Road and Frederick Road, rose over seven feet during the downpour on Thursday, inundating gardens in Frederick Road, and overflowing into Howsell Road, flooding into driveways, garages and gardens.

Ian Charles of Howsell Road said that the stream should be kept unobstructed where it flows into a culvert under Howsell Road, but says maintenance has been neglected, allowing debris to build up.

He said: "This has become a major concern to residents - it's not the first time this has occurred.

"The highways are contracted to clear the debris monthly and visit regularly. Residents have informed the highways to clear the blockage, by reporting it themselves and pressurising them. During wet weather, the water rises rapidly.

"The highways need to review their commitment and check this stream on a regular basis."

He also said the low wall where the stream goes under Howsell Road needs to be kept in good repair, as the force of water pushed the mortar out and he fears it could collapse.

Caroline Heather, who also lives in Howsell Road, said: "The stream which runs alongside my property burst its bank due to the debris not being cleared where it goes under the road. My whole garden was flooded from front to back. If the water has risen any further, my property would have been flooded.

"I and other residents requested the Highways Agency to clear this debris prior to this event, This was not done, and still it remains."

A Worcestershire County Council spokesperson said: "The culverts and drains are all regularly checked and cleared of debris. When there is sudden, heavy rain, the excess water often causes short-lived flooding, which should clear relatively quickly.

"Any flooding that doesn't clear can be reported via our website worcestershire.gov.uk/reportit and a highways officer will investigate if there is a further problem."