Call for answers and short-term solutions to flood woes

Parts of Shrewsbury were underwater again last week after Storm Christoph struck, with regular victims in Coleham, Coton Hill and the town centre bearing the brunt once more.

Several businesses and homeowners had barely completed renovations after last February's double floods, and communities are growing weary of having to fight back after weather disasters.

The River Severn Partnership was formed last year to find solutions, and millions of pounds of government money has been set aside for schemes from north Wales to the Bristol Channel.

But Shrewsbury town councillors say nothing has been done to help the town in the short to medium term, and urgent action is required. They want the partnership, the Environment Agency and other stakeholders to come together to help alleviate problems now.

Belle Vue councillor Kate Halliday was once again involved in helping businesses and residents through a tough few days. She said the water levels were similar to last year.

At a virtual town council meeting, she said: "Shrewsbury has flooded three times in the last year with devastating effects on businesses and residents. The River Severn Partnership is discussing a holistic approach. These plans are at an initial stage, and even if they come to fruition, it will be several years before anything is done.

"If flooding like this continues, it will create significant damage to Coleham. Can I ask that the town council works with Shropshire Council on a short to medium term plan.

"It has been a really difficult time for people in Coleham. I know it is not the only part of Shrewsbury that has suffered. The water levels were pretty much the same as last time for us. Many businesses had completed or nearly completed renovations, including the Barnabas Centre. It's difficult to know if some of these properties will be able to get insurance in the future."

While there were scenes showing the best of Salopians in Coleham, including kind-hearted locals ferrying carers to trapped pensioners in canoes, locals are becoming increasingly frustrated with the lack of tangible help.

"It is devastating to see the effect on business owners and residents," added Councillor Halliday. "Coleham is a really thriving business area and I am really worried that this is going to severely inhibit the buzz.

"We do have a flood action group and we have suggested some short and medium term solutions. But it seems like people are only interested in discussing the long term issues."

Councillor Julian Dean added that Severn Trent ought to be included in discussion, as blocked drains appeared to be stopping flood water escaping and causing further problems in his Porthill ward.

Councillor Alan Mosley, who represents Castlefields and Ditherington, called on the town's MP Daniel Kawczynski to explain why nothing has been put in place yet to help stop flooding since last February.

"I think that it's about holding him to account about why nothing has been done. We ought to be calling on Shropshire Council to start a scrutiny flooding committee.

"It is time for urgent action."