Road gullies and drains
We are responsible for gullies and gully grids (the metal gratings in the gutter) on adopted roads in Cheshire East and on land we own. Gullies are small chambers that form the top part of the surface water drainage system. Rain water from the road surface flows through the gratings into the gullies and then into the underground drainage system.
Where gullies are linked to underground drains and sewers that form part of the main drainage network, United Utilities are usually responsible for any issues with the drains and sewers. This is typically the case in urban areas.
Where water from the gullies flows through to roadside ditches, soakaways or watercourses, we are usually responsible for any issues. This tends to be the case in rural areas.
On private land, gullies and drains are the responsibility of the owner of the land.
Report a gully or drain issue
You can report a blocked gully or drain or other gully or drain issue online.
Where there is a flooding emergency or danger to life, call 999.
Before you report a gully or drain issue
If there has been heavy rain, it is worth waiting a little while before you report a gully blockage unless flooding is causing a danger to road users. Gullies vary in the speed at which they can drain water away. Some will overflow during periods of heavy rain even though there is no blockage. The water will clear when the rain stops.
Report a gully or drain issue
After you report a gully or drain issue
When we get reports of blocked gulleys and drains, we check the situation and assess what action to take. We prioritise clearing blockages that directly affect property or present a danger to road users. Where there is an issue with utility company infrastructure, we pass the information to the utility company concerned.
Gully maintenance
We keep road gullies clear and in good repair through an ongoing gully maintenance programme (PDF, 28KB). For more information visit the following network routes:
In addition to this programme, we are also attending to some gullies in areas to the north of the borough on a priority basis, in response to the recent flood event. Find out more about our flood recovery process.