Is Sibelco Responsible for Our Flooding?
Residents ask if there is a legal case to answer
In the winter of 2024, Kingsteignton and nearby communities suffered some of the worst flooding in recent memory. Roads were impassable, homes were damaged, and families left asking: why does this keep happening?
Recently, our MP Martin Wrigley called for urgent work to clear the bywash flood channel near the Sibelco ball clay works. The bywash is meant to divert excess water safely to the River Teign. If it is clogged or neglected, floodwaters can back up into our streets and homes.
But who is supposed to keep these channels working?
The Promises in Black and White
When Sibelco’s quarries were reviewed under the Review of Old Mineral Permissions (ROMPs), Devon County Council imposed strict conditions on the company, including Conditions 19-21 of the Broadway ROMP which clearly state:
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All surface water run-off from tips and excavations must be intercepted by perimeter ditches or settlement lagoons before reaching watercourses .
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The company must maintain proper drainage, with detailed flood prevention measures submitted and approved by the Council .
These aren’t “nice to haves.” They are legally binding planning conditions - the promises Sibelco made to keep operating.
If Promises Were Kept, Why Are We Flooding?
If those drainage systems and bywash channels were being properly maintained, why would our MP now be calling for emergency clearance?
Residents are entitled to ask:
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Have Sibelco kept their ditches and bywashes clear, as required by law?
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If not, did this failure contribute to the 2024 floods that hit our town?
Who Holds Them Accountable?
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Devon County Council is the Mineral Planning Authority. It has the duty to enforce breaches of planning conditions.
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The Environment Agency oversees pollution and watercourse impacts.
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Residents may also have civil rights if neglect has caused damage to property.
Why This Matters Now
Sibelco is pushing for new quarrying on woodland beside the River Teign. Before they are allowed to clear a single tree, the community has a right to see proof that they’ve lived up to their existing responsibilities.
Because if promises on drainage and flood protection haven’t been kept, how can anyone trust new promises about protecting homes, water, or wildlife?
👉 Next Step for Residents: We are filing Environmental Information Requests (EIRs) to Devon County Council and the Environment Agency to uncover inspection records and compliance reports. If you experienced flood damage in 2024, please share your story — your evidence could make all the difference.
