An Ashby primary school considered to be at 'high risk from surface water flooding' has been given the go-ahead to install new drainage channels.

Willesley County Primary School will also be permitted to repairs to below ground drainage runs and the installation of below ground attenuation tanks.

In November, 2019, adults and children had to be rescued from the school by Leicestershire Fire & Rescue Service after it was surrounded by flood water.

Around 20 children and 20 adults were taken to safety.

The school later posted on its website: "The flood to the school on 14th November has left us with quite a refurbishment project to deal with. 

"In total, 10 areas have been affected, including classrooms, practical areas, the staffroom and hall.

"Work is now progressing in phases - the first being to get our Foundation Stage and a Year 2 classroom back in operation by 7th January."

Now North West Leicestershire District Council has given the go-ahead for drainage work to take place.

A council officer's report said: "The site is located within Flood Zone 1, an area at lowest risk from fluvial flooding - however it is identified as an area of high risk from surface water flooding on the Environment Agency's Surface Water Flood Maps. 

"Willesley County Primary School currently encounters problems with excess surface water run-off which is not discharged at a fast enough rate from the site. 

"This results in flooding during extreme weather conditions. 

"This application seeks to install underground attenuation tanks to help store and slowly release the water at a more manageable rate to reduce flooding on site and the immediate area.

"Ashby de la Zouch Town Council has concerns regarding where surface water is being discharged to and would like clarification on this."

"Western Park is prone to waterlogging, so surface water must not be discharged onto that location or nearby. 

"The Committee can see that the Lead Local Flooding Authority has raised several concerns and questions - one of which is to provide evidence that it is not feasible to use gravity surface water discharging.

"The works to improve the existing surface water drainage on an important community facility within the Limits to Development is acceptable in principle. 

"Subject to conditions, the proposed works would not result in harm to; the character or appearance of the area; the living conditions of neighbouring residents; or bio-diversity."