Flooding closes Queens Drive almost a year after couple died in tragedy

A road which flooded and led to the death of a couple has closed once again.

Elaine and Philip Marco, aged 75 and 77, died after their car became submerged by floodwater in an section of Queens Drive in Mossley Hill on August 26 last year. Work around the bridge where the couple's car was stuck was carried out for months.

In a bid to prevent such an occurrence happening again, a series of upgrades were installed around the road including barriers and flood sensors. The road was reopened in February.

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However, after a heavy downpour in the evening of Tuesday, July 9, pictures taken by the ECHO show the sensors activated and flooding under the bridge. Barricades were put across the top of the road preventing drivers from accessing it.

Liverpool City Council said on Wednesday, July 10, Queens Drive remains closed after the flood system "successfully detected rising water levels following last night's heavy downpour, and activated the barriers to keep people safe." A council spokesperson added diversions are in place.

The Marcos, who were well-respected members of the city's Jewish community, were described as a “quiet and humble couple" who were "very dedicated and devoted grandparents.” The tragedy occurred just five days before Elaine and Phillip were due to celebrate their 54th wedding anniversary last year.

A statement from the couple's family said at the time: "We are devastated and heartbroken by the sudden loss of Elaine and Philip Marco. They were much loved parents to four children and 10 grandchildren.

"The family are arriving overseas from America and Australia to mourn their loss. They were due to celebrate their 54th wedding anniversary next week and our only comfort is knowing that they were together to the very end."

In response to the couple's death, Liverpool Council oversaw a period of work on Queens Drive, including replacement of gullies, repairs to the carriageway including pothole maintenance and upgraded street lighting. As well as measuring water levels, the new sensors will provide long term data which will show how quickly or slowly water is getting through.

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