RESIDENTS are calling for urgent action after just ten minutes of rain led to some Canvey streets flooding.

Roads including Gainsborough Avenue and Cedar Road both flooded during the rain on Thursday.

There are now calls for the drains to be looked at to prevent future incidents of flooding.

In 2013 and 2014, there was widespread flooding on the island, caused by the sheer amount of rain which fell in a short space of time.

Pumps that had been installed to help drain the water were unable to keep pace with the volume of water.

Many houses and roads flooded as a result.

There are concerns that as the roads have flooded already this year after such a small amount of rain, and there are fears that during autumn and winter there could be more widespread flooding.

A resident of Gainsborough Avenue, who asked not to be named, said: “The flooding down my road happened quickly.

“Within ten minutes, the road was flooded.

“We contacted Castle Point Council and they said they were going to look at it but didn’t bother to come out, which was disappointing.

“We have reported it in the past and they still haven’t bothered.

“It always floods in the same spot.

“We were flooded two years ago and we always worry now.

“I’m no expert but I do think it is the drains causing the issues.”

Other residents also revealed their roads had also flooded and they thought the drains were to blame.

A spokesman for Anglian Water said the drainage system is designed in a way that means water can drain into road gullies - similar to how water drains from a bath tub.

This means that although surface water may gather in large puddles it should drain away.

They added: “Our drainage equipment close to Cedar Road or Gainborough Avenue was working as it should and no flooding was reported to us directly.

“Customers can always report flooding to us through our contact centre, 03457 145 145 or through Facebook and Twitter.”

For further information you should visit anglianwater.co.uk