More consultation sessions to be held over Environment Agency plans to stop land drainage in Lower Alt and Crossens catchment

Oct 27 2011 by Rob Pattinson, Ormskirk Advertiser

MORE consultation sessions are set to be held over controversial Environment Agency plans to stop its land drainage in the area by 2015.

The government agency says the £3 million a year it spends on flood risk management and land drainage in the Lower Alt and Crossens catchment is no longer sustainable.

Graham Sheppard, the Environment Agency project manager, said cuts to funding from Defra meant they were having to prioritise protecting urban areas and homes – which could see a scaling back of pumping and an increase in the use of natural flood plains in rural areas as washlands and for flood storage.

The consultation document suggests one approach to retain some land drainage in the area would be for a partnership to be set up to provide additional funds from those who benefit from it, involving landowners, farmers and councils.

Initially, the agency had announced two ‘drop in’ sessions for residents to consult the plans – one in Formby today, the other in Halsall Memorial Hall on Tuesday November 1, from 1pm to 6.30pm.

But following calls from MPs, residents and councillors the agency has confirmed it is looking to hold more sessions.

Mr Sheppard said: “Following feedback, we are planning to host further drop-in sessions to give as many people as possible the chance to discuss the consultation with us face to face. Details will be on our website soon.”

West Lancs MP Rosie Cooper said: “I have met with the Environment Agency to discuss this particular issue and to seek assurances about any impact on West Lancashire residents. I would encourage all landowners to get involved in the consultation process and to have your say. However, I am more than happy to take up any issue directly on behalf of any landowner, farmer, business or resident that have concerns. I will continue to monitor this consultation closely.”

Richard Potts, NFU north west environment adviser, said: “The NFU realises that limited Environment Agency funding means [the drainage] cannot continue in its current format but withdrawing such a service without finding workable alternatives will have significant detrimental effects on farming and food production. Engagement with farmers is therefore vital so the NFU will consult with its members, organise meetings if required and will help in any way it can.”

For more details on the consultation, which runs until December 16, visit http://bit.ly/vI4Lzg