'Major incident' declared in Northumberland as residents struggle without power - SEVEN DAYS on from Storm Arwen
Last updated 3rd Dec 2021
A major incident's been declared in Northumberland as the county struggles to deal with the impact of Storm Arwen.
More than 3000 people are still without power seven days on.
And council chiefs say concern's growing for those in the worst affected communities.
Daljit Lally, Chief Executive for Northumberland County Council, said: “We are extremely concerned for those residents in our communities who continue to be without power, and in some cases water as well.
“Whilst all agencies have and continue to work together to assist those affected in our communities and are doing all they can, we need more support.
"The damage caused to some power lines is devastating and we do not know how long this will continue for. The welfare of our residents is our utmost priority.”
North of the border, Scottish Power Energy Networks has announced all customers it's aware of are now back online.
Although Scottish Borders Council leader Mark Rowley has since revealed homes in Ettrick, Lauder and Foulden are among those still without heating or hot water, while others are having to rely on temporary supplies and generators.
He's calling for a review of the energy firm's handling of the crisis.
The Berwickshire councillor said: "What I'm hearing from our emergency planning team is that we're still aware that there are people in communities that are not connected. For SP Energy Networks to go out there and say: 'It's fine, it's sorted', is not only insensitive, it's inaccurate and it's really dangerous."
Earlier, the energy firm announced it's offering every household without power for more than 48 hours an extra £150 compensation - to say sorry for the disruption.
Meanwhile, communities in the Borders and North Northumberland are rallying round to help.
Duns Rugby Club is offering the use of its showers for anyone still struggling, while the town's primary school will remain open until eight o'clock tonight to provide hot food and drinks. The Salvation Army has also been drafted in.
Active Northumberland has also offered the use of its leisure centres in Berwick and Alnwick, and a helpline has been set-up. Anyone in need of assistance in the Borders should contact 0300 100 1800 up to 6pm. After 6pm the out of hours emergency number 01896 752111 should be used.
Glen Sanderson, Leader of Northumberland County Council, said: “Our staff and all our partners have worked non-stop over the past week and I want to thank them as well as all our communities and volunteers for their brilliant efforts.
“This was an unprecedented storm and I have seen first hand and with great sadness the destruction the wind has caused to many parts of our beautiful county.
“We know there is some way to go but the council is doing everything it can to support our residents.”
Scott Dickinson, Leader of the Opposition, added: “I fully support the actions being taken to ensure that all agencies that need additional support get it, as well the thousands of residents left in dire need.
“We must recognise the efforts of communities, the Council, and other organisations but now also ask for and accept additional support."
Berwick Academy and Belford primary school remains closed after suffering storm damage.
Details of what additional support will be available are set to be discussed this afternoon.
A multi-agency emergency response has been ongoing since last Friday.
There is some good news though - Eyemouth high street has reopened. It was closed last week amid concerns over falling masonry, which rained down on the road during last week's storm.
The town's holiday park has also reopened - but, down the road in Berwick, the Haven site remains closed.
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