MP for Runnymede and Weybridge, Dr Ben Spencer, has called on the Government to prioritise the River Thames Flood Defence Scheme as part of the Government’s Recovery Plan.
For the last 3 months everybody’s focus has rightly been on Covid-19, how to keep people safe, support the NHS, and support the individuals and businesses affected by the crisis. But it’s important that the key issues we were facing before the pandemic are still addressed, and every effort is made to maintain focus and momentum on key projects, such as the River Thames Scheme.
As all residents are aware, the River Thames Scheme is vital in protecting local homes and businesses from flooding. But it can also have a key role to play in our economic recovery, providing jobs, improving infrastructure, and boosting confidence in our local economy. This is more vital than ever.
To highlight this, Dr Ben Spencer has written to both Rebecca Pow MP, Minister for Flooding and the Environment Agency to ensure that the scheme is prioritised as part of the Government’s coronavirus recovery plan.
Dr Spencer said:
“The River Thames Scheme is already long overdue, but could now provide a much needed boost to the economy as well as protecting homes and communities in Runnymede and Weybridge and surrounding areas. As the Prime Minister said today, now is the time to be ambitious.
The River Thames Scheme is a clear example of the ambitious infrastructure projects the Government says must now be prioritised. I will continue to press for progress on this vital project to protect residents from the constant threat of flooding while also providing local jobs and economic growth.”
Dr Spencer has also committed to press for further measures to address the risks of flooding, such as limitations on developments on the flood plain.
