Angry homeowners and businesses in Shropshire call for better protection from flooding
Dozens were at a public meeting organised by Shrewsbury Flood Action Group.
Angry homeowners and businesses in Shropshire have backed calls for better protection from flooding.
Dozens were at a meeting in Shrewsbury last night (27 February), which brought together councillors, the Environment Agency, National Flood Forum and Severn Valley Water Management Scheme to discuss the issue.
The town, and many others along the River Severn, have been badly impacted by flooding in January and February, as well as last October.
Shrewsbury Flood Action Group, which organised the meeting, said the aim was to bring those repeatedly impacted by flooding together and share information.
Siobhan Connor, from the group, said: "It costs £500 a month to run a dehumidifier to dry out after a flood and the government's grant of £500 would help towards this cost and we believe every flooded home and business should be entitled to this."
The government announced grants for those affected by flooding during Storm Henk, which caused widespread disruption in January.
In order to be eligible however, Shropshire Council needs to demonstrate over 50 homes and businesses were flooded internally. So far, around 44 have come forward.
Ms Connor added: "This is extremely frustrating that the modelling of funding is based on so many stipulations. Currently no-one in Shropshire will receive any help towards flood recovery, based on this model."
One farmer told the meeting how he was already doing his bit to alleviate flooding along the Severn. Ed Tate said he uses his land to slow the flow of water and delay damage further downstream, but it comes "at a cost".
He said locking water on his land and storing it in ditches can delay the water for an hour and a half, and added that more farmers are willing to do the same but need "continuity and cash" for giving up their land.
In response to concerns raised by homeowners and businesses, councillors told the meeting it would take a long time to get people the support they want.
Representatives from the Environment Agency said they are working with a "finite amount of funding", but would continue to work with emergency services, and communities, on flood response.