26 June 2009

UPDATE ON WORK NATIONALLY TO PROTECT US FROM FLOODING

Stafford’s MP David Kidney has reported progress made nationally in protecting people against the risk of flooding:

“In recent years, a number of severe floods around the country have demonstrated to us all the increased risk of flooding. The Government has been busy taking steps to try to protect people and critical infrastructure from this greater risk.

“Actions that have already been taken include:

• Completed 85 flood defence schemes, protecting nearly 58,000 additional homes in England;
• Increased Government funding from £600 million in 2007/08 to a forecast £780 million in 2010/11;
• Signed up 136,000 additional people to receive flood warnings;
• Set up a £7.7 million flood Forecasting Centre jointly run by the environment Agency and Met Office;
• Announced a £5 million grant scheme for householders for home flood protection like air bricks and door boards.

“The Government has also published a draft Flood and Water Management Bill for consultation and I have spoken about this measure previously.

“There remains work to be done to ensure that the risk of flooding is kept as low as possible. This is a risk that will continue to be with us and we must all keep it uppermost in our minds, not least Councillors when they are faced with applications for planning permission for building on flood plains.”

ENDS

For further information CONTACT David Kidney on his mobile 07966 378844 or David’s offices on 020 7219 6472 or 01785 224444.