Gullies, also known as drains, are essential components of road drainage systems. They are large pots covered by metal grids and are typically found at the edge of roads. They also exist along kerb lines and are called kerb inlet gullies.
When rainwater falls on roads, it flows into these gullies, which then direct the water to roadside ditches, sewer systems, soakaways, catchpits, and sometimes directly into watercourses.
Most gullies are connected to public sewers, which handle both foul (sewage) and surface water. These sewers are owned and maintained by local water utility companies.
Cleaning gullies
Knowsley Council is responsible for cleaning approximately 30,000 gullies on adopted highways. This means that the authority is responsible for maintaining gullies on public roads and pavements.
In contrast, gullies and surface water systems on private roads, parking areas, or non-council-maintained land are the responsibility of the landowner.
If you experience sewage problems, please contact the relevant water authority or landowner.
How often gullies are cleaned
The frequency of gully cleaning depends on the type of road:
- Gullies on high-speed roads are cleaned twice a year (Priority 1).
- Gullies on classified A, B, and C roads are cleaned once a year (Priority 2).
- Gullies on unclassified roads are cleaned once every two years (Priority 3).
In addition to regular cleaning schedules, gullies are also cleaned when blockages are reported.
Blocked gullies
The council promptly addresses blocked gullies that are reported or identified during routine inspections. The priority for gully cleaning is as follows:
- If a blocked gully is reported and there are no reports of flooding, the gully will be cleaned within 28 days.
- If a blocked gully is causing flooding on a highway or a neighbouring property/land, the gully will be cleared within 2-24 hours, depending on the severity of the flooding.
- If a blocked gully is reported on a Priority 1 or Priority 2 road and there are no reports of flooding, the gully will be cleaned at the next scheduled cleaning. If the next scheduled cleaning is more than 28 days away, a new work request will be raised.
Maintaining gullies
If any problems with gullies are identified during the routine maintenance of adopted highways, these will be investigated and considered as part of the annual Capital Maintenance funding.
Reasons for flooding
While a well-maintained drainage system can effectively manage rainwater, there are some factors that can contribute to flooding:
Maximum capacity
The highway drainage system has a maximum capacity, and if the amount of surface water exceeds this capacity, it may take longer for the water to drain away.
Free flow of sewer systems, ditches, and watercourses
Knowsley's highway drainage systems rely on the free flow of sewer systems, ditches, and watercourses. If any of these systems are blocked or not working properly, it can hinder the drainage of rainwater.
High river levels
When river levels are high, surface water may be trapped on the highway until the river levels drop.
Damaged piped systems
Damage to piped systems can disrupt the flow of water, leading to flooding. It is crucial to report any damage to pipes promptly.
Report a problem
Report a problem with highway drains
You can also call 0800 0232334.