MP: £50m needed to tackle River Severn flooding

Up to £50 million is needed to tackle flooding along the River Severn in Shropshire to safeguard county homes and businesses, an MP claimed today.

Daniel Kawczynski, MP for Shrewsbury, believes flooding leaves a "Sword of Damocles" hanging over the town each year with people who live and work there having no way of knowing when they could be hit by a deluge of flood water.

And he is launching a new group to tackle the issue and help come up with ways of securing the cash for a long-term plan to combat the issue.

Mr Kawczynski, said the group would meet for the first time next month, with a strategic plan drawn up at the meetings.

He hopes this will be then be presented to the Department for Food, Environment and Rural Affairs and the Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne before being debated in the House of Commons.

"I'm fed up with the small flood defences which are leaving Shrewsbury hamstrung at winter time," said Mr Kawczynski.

"If you look at areas with high flood risk, doctors report higher levels of stress. Flooding is putting a psychological pressure on the town.

"This is going to be my top priority over the next year and at the inaugural meeting I will be trying to get people together, so we can develop a business case.

"If we come up with a really good proposal which involves a variety of agencies we may be able to jump the queue for funding. We are also wanting to hear from people in Shrewsbury who have specific experience in major investment of this kind. It could see up to £50 million invested into the area."

The news comes as a huge clean-up began in Cornwall after severe flooding.

To find out more about the task group or to join contact (01743) 466477.

By Sam Pinnington