As we conclude summer with records of the hottest summer since 1976, you reported last week on the unfortunate folk who got stuck in the mud on the bottom of Hollow Ponds boating lake in Whipp’s Cross and the low pond levels inside Wanstead Park. I recognise that authorities could not stop the water evaporation at either location, and must recognise both as an indication of the climate changes will shall have to endure in future. Running close to these locations is the River Roding, which extends from near Stansted, beside the M11 onto Chigwell, Woodford, Wanstead and the Thames .

I saw today what had been mentioned by neighbours, that this river is no more. It should act as a means to reduce flooding in the above areas but has in fact now become a table of green plants with just a trickle of water trying to go south. At Charlie Browns roundabout what was a wide and deep river after the beast from the east is now fully choked with plants. Upon heavy rainfall this could cause the repeat of flooding on fields near Abridge, plus flooding akin to a few years ago which hit readers in Chigwell Road, Raven Road, Maybank Road, Wansford Road, Broadmead Road and Brackley Square.

One appreciates the investment in a holding tank off Snakes Lane East but when the river water is released the water will come over the banks and also flood the new traffic light fittings and works going around Charlie Browns roundabout. In times of austerity can the Environment Agency consider getting the River Roding flowing ?

David Sice

Woodford Green, by email