Holiday park plagued by flooding is closed down

A caravan park where floods posed "a serious risk to life" has been shut down by its owners.

Major flooding incidents have plagued Cogenhoe Mill, near Northampton, in recent years.

Most occupants at the 60-caravan site have relocated about two miles (3.2km) away to Billing Aquadrome, owner Meadow Bay Villages said.

Its chief executive, Geoffrey Smith, added there had been "understandable sadness" about its decision to close the park on safety grounds.

But he stressed the site, on the banks of the River Nene, had fallen victim to "repeated and significant flooding events".

It was most recently evacuated during heavy rainfall in September.

Mr Smith said: "All caravans at Cogenhoe Mill have now been successfully relocated, either to Billing Aquadrome or other suitable sites, marking the official closure of the park."

He thanked holiday homeowners for their support, as well as staff, police and the local council.

"Some final works, including the removal of sheds and decking, will be completed shortly," Mr Smith added.

"We remain committed to maintaining the marina area for continued use and enjoyment."

Meadow Bay Villages acquired both Cogenhoe Mill and Billing Aquadrome in spring 2024 after they went into administration.

The company then shared concerns about floods posing a "significant threat to property but also a serious risk to life" in Cogenhoe.

Yet Billing has also had its share of water woes, being evacuated three times in 2024.

However, Mr Smith said "substantial investment" in the park had transformed its fortunes.

"The relocation of caravans from Cogenhoe Mill offers more holiday homeowners the chance to be part of a thriving, revitalised community with improved facilities and a brighter future," he added.

Follow Northamptonshire news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.