Residents in Binstead have exercised their Riparian rights to clear debris and detritus from a stream near their properties in a bid to reduce the risk of flooding in the area. In the flooding of 2021 and again in October’s flood, blockages and backups were experienced causing numerous issues and damage for those living in and around Cemetery Road. To ensure a free run of water, a number of residents who have been affected by recent floods – including Darren Bacon, Richard Bond and Chris Jenkins – donned their waders and jumped in the stream over the weekend to address 1 of the known problems. The term ‘Riparian Owner’ describes anyone who owns property alongside or through which a natural water course flows. Under common law, such owners possess rights and responsibilities in relation to the stretch of the watercourse that flows through or adjacent to their property. A watercourse may be anything from a ditch to a main river. It is normally presumed that a Riparian Owner owns land up to the centre line of a non-tidal watercourse. 
“We, like some others, have the stream running to the rear of our properties so we all have Riparian rights. It means we are responsible for maintaining various elements which includes the trees and shrubs growing on the banks, plus clearing any debris. Which, as you can see, was significant! “Over three hours, we managed to get it flowing nicely. By the end, the water appeared cleaner and the flow had improved immensely. “It’s fair to say that in parts, it had been ignored by some, but this affects us all. From the top of the road to the bottom and beyond. “For residents that have any sort of waterway that runs through their property, we suggest getting it squared away at the earliest opportunity. We are all in this together and so we have to pull together.”
Local councillor Ian Dore joined the residents, getting dirty and wet whilst helping out. Councillor Dore has said:
“I had visited an adjoining property a couple of days before and had seen a different perspective of the stream. The owner has three little ones, her and her partner work shifts and it was a fairly big job. I’ve got a saw, boots and brew kit, duty called! We all know each other, it was a nice morning so, we all jumped in and smashed it out.” “What this demonstrates is community cohesion when it comes to Riparian responsibility. Over the weekend, this stream was bought right up to speed and is a shining example of residents taking their Riparian responsibilities seriously. Hats, gloves and boots off to them!”
