Stockport Labour Leader, Cllr Elise Wilson, and Deputy Leader Cllr Tom McGee have written to Theresa Villiers MP proposing a flooding summit be held, in order to look at ways to better manage and prevent flooding.

In the letter, the Labour Cllrs noted the need for a review of national and regional flood strategies as part of the summit following the recent flooding in Stockport and the Whaley Bridge area. The summit could look to promote more wetland and ponds for upstream catchment of rain, while also examining how problems of urban drainage could be addressed.

Cllr Wilson further urged the Secretary of State to review the Household Flood Resilience Grant and the Business and Communities Recovery Scheme, to help address the needs of residents and businesses in the Stockport area, which have been affected to the tune of £1million by recent events.

Commenting, the Stockport Labour Leader Cllr Elise Wilson said:

“Recent events emphasis how real the effects of climate change are to Stockport. We are proposing a flooding summit that brings together statutory agencies, develops a comprehensive strategy to tackle extreme weather events and inject a real sense of urgency into our preparations.

“Stockport residents and businesses should not be abandoned in times of emergency, it’s our duty as public servants to work together and address these issues.”

Stockport Labour Deputy Leader Cllr Tom McGee added:

“We have written to the Secretary of State not only to help businesses and communities affected by floods in Stockport, but also to propose an ambitious new summit to take a deep look at how these national and regional issues can best be addressed.

“Residents of Stockport and surrounding areas are still reeling from the effect of recent floods. It is our duty, as their representatives and as a nation to provide as much help as possible and seek to manage flooding long term.

“In a changing climate, this is becoming ever more pressing and I hope we receive positive engagement on this from Government.”

ENDS

 

NOTES:

A copy of the letter is enclosed. Theresa Villiers MP flood letter.docx