Dartford pedestrian tunnel near county court remains out of action after heavy rainfall
A flooded underpass remains unsafe and inaccessible following recent heavy rainfall.
The pedestrian tunnel beneath Hanau Bridge, linking Lowfield Street with St Saviour’s Walk in Dartford, is regularly used by residents trying to cross to reach the town and nearby bus stops.
The issue has been described as a long-standing problem, with the underpass affected multiple times over the years, particularly during periods of heavy rain.
Kent County councillor Ben Fryer, who represents the Dartford North East ward, visited the underpass at lunchtime on Yesterday (January 26) and said he was concerned by its condition.
The Reform member later spoke with Kent County Council (KCC), which confirmed its drainage management team is currently planning how best to address the issue.
He added the council was unable to give a clear timescale for when the underpass will be cleared and reopened.
“This is a long-standing issue in Dartford, with the tunnel flooding several times over the years, particularly during the rainy months,” he explained.
“I completely understand how frustrating this is for residents.
“When it happens, it causes immense difficulties for everyone, but especially for elderly and disabled residents trying to cross safely to reach the town centre or the bus stop.
“I’ve spoken with KCC, and they’ve confirmed this is a priority for them, which is appreciated.
“We really need the underpass to be safe and accessible again, and in the meantime I’ll be doing everything I can to ensure it’s dealt with as quickly as possible.”
One resident who doesn’t want to be named told KentOnline: “It's like everything in Dartford, rapidly getting worse and falling apart.
“Too many properties being built taking away valuable natural drainage, too many people pouring fat down the plug hole or drains in the street adding to the fatberg problem”,
They also blasted a lack of street cleaning and drain unblocking with litter being “chucked in the street”.
Kent County Council were approached for comment.