Dr Ben Spencer MP today submitted a response to the Government’s consultation on flood risk management, calling for a quicker response to addressing flood risk, more support for households and businesses affected, and improved communication and access to information for those who are at risk.
Government itself has highlighted that the River Thames as it runs through Runnymede and Weybridge is on the largest area of undefended, developed floodplain in England. In 2014 the area suffered serious floods, and each year since residents are left with anxiety every time river levels rise and flood alerts and warnings are issued. With climate change, the risk of flooding is only going to grow.
Despite the clear need for the River Thames Scheme to be built to protect local communities, the project is already significantly behind schedule. The consultation looks at ways in which the current flood risk management process, its speed, funding and metrics used can be improved to deliver better outcomes.
Dr Ben Spencer said:
No one should have to live in fear of flooding, and tackling flood risk was one of my first pledges to residents when elected in 2019. The most common concerns residents raise with me regarding flooding is the delay to the River Thames Scheme, protection for their homes until this is built, and the lack of information about the progress and support available should they need it.
In this consultation response I am calling for improvements in 3 key areas, the speed of delivering mitigation, the support available to residents, and clearer communication. Changes in each of these areas would go a long way to reducing the risk and anxiety of many households across Runnymede and Weybridge.
A copy of the consultation response is available below.
