Dartford Home Gardens underpass problems continue as KCC says major repairs needed

A flood-prone pedestrian underpass continues to face drainage problems after new inspections revealed more extensive issues.

The tunnel beneath Hanau Bridge at Home Gardens in Dartford, linking Lowfield Street with St Saviour’s Walk, has been repeatedly flooded for months, often filling with water and becoming impassable for pedestrians.

Residents have recently noticed work being carried out at the site, and Green Party councillor Laura Edie, who launched a petition over the issue, said she was pleased to see progress after months of disruption.

“I’m really pleased that work has finally started to deal with the flooding at Home Gardens underpass.” she said

However, Kent County Council has confirmed the issue is not yet resolved, with further work needed to repair the drainage system.

A KCC spokesperson said: “Further inspections were carried out at the underpass on Monday (April 27) as part of the ongoing work KCC has been undertaking since December to address flooding at the site.

“These inspections allowed teams to assess the condition of the pumping equipment in detail and confirmed that significant work is required to restore the pumps to full working order.

“A quote for the necessary repairs is now being prepared and, once received, an order will be raised so the works can be carried out as quickly as possible.”

Contractors have since removed the standing water, and the site will continue to be inspected regularly while plans to repair or replace the pumps move forward.

The underpass has been out of action since earlier this year, forcing pedestrians to find alternative routes.

Ms Edie has previously warned that the route poses a risk to residents, particularly elderly and disabled people, with reports of injuries after people slipped while trying to pass through.

KCC previously said the drainage system is more complex than a standard setup, relying on pumps and valves to prevent water from flowing back into the underpass.

No date has yet been confirmed for when full repairs will be completed.