OWNERS and tenants of properties at risk of flooding in Tenbury Wells are urged to come forward for expert advice and support.
Environment Agency appointed consultants are expected to begin work to survey flood-affected properties next month but owners and tenants need to register their interest in the scheme before September 20.
With the deadline approaching, West Worcestershire MP Dame Harriett Baldwin is urging the owners or residents to come forward following previous letters she has sent out to raise awareness of the scheme.
Surveyors are expected to assess each at risk premises to plan for the installation of property level protection. After surveys, each resident or property owner will get a report showing the results and any recommended flood resilience measures.
Measures of protection include flood gates, pumps and other building improvements such as waterproofing.
Those who are tenants will need approval from their landlords before measures can be installed. The Environment Agency encourages interested tenants to engage with their landlord early to avoid delays.
Dame Harriett said: “I continue to press for funding for the permanent flood defences for Tenbury Wells, but I’ve also lobbied the Environment Agency to make sure there are funds available in the meantime to improve property level protection.
“Some buildings in the town are protected but many have flood gates which are up to 15 years old.
“Now is the time for townspeople to sign up for a survey so we can significantly improve each property’s ability to deal with flooding.
“Of course, the full flood defence scheme is still the best option on the table but while Government works out how best it will spend its flood defence budget, this is an important initiative.
“I urge local people to register their interest and have a discussion with the Environment Agency before the September deadline.”
Following previous engagement events, the Environment Agency will carry out three further drop-in sessions in the town’s Pump Rooms.
Events take place on Wednesday, August 27, Tuesday, September 9 and Thursday, September 25. Each drop-in session takes place from 1pm to 3pm and is an opportunity meet the team, ask questions and provide feedback.
Email [email protected] to submit an expression of interest in the Environment Agency scheme.
When submitting, provide your property address, whether its residential or commercial (include business name if applicable), confirm whether you are the owner or tenant, and provide your contact details.
