Terry Jermy MP spoke in a key debate in Parliament on the issue of flood preparedness in Norfolk, highlighting the many issues that have caused damage across the region.
Jermy spoke on behalf of residents in South West Norfolk who had “been left frustrated after numerous flooding incidents”.
As well as stating the time taken to look into the causes of flooding and recommendations for mitigation were “woefully slow with some cases up to two years to complete.”
Jermy, who prior to being a Member of Parliament, served on Norfolk County Council – the lead local flood authority, for the past decade, called for the need for additional funding after fourteen years of Conservative governments failing to tackle the root causes and prevention. “Often residents are repeatedly flooded before we’ve even received the reports on the initial incident. Local Councils must be given additional resources and powers to respond to the increasing flood risks. As I have already raised in Parliament, levy funding for internal drainage boards is an increasing concern for many councils. In my constituency, King’s Lynn and West Norfolk borough council now contributes the equivalent of 43% of its council tax income to fund Internal Drainage Board (IDB) levies.”
Jermy went on to say that since Labour becoming forming the government back in July, measures to deal with flooding progress were beginning to be made.
“I am delighted to say since Labour have taken office, we have seen progress with additional funding of over a quarter of million to West Norfolk Council alone. This cannot be overstated, what a welcome relief it is to have an administration who understand the need to address this matter urgently.
“I also welcome the new Floods Resilience Taskforce launched to turbocharge flood preparedness and delivery of flood defenses, including an extra £50million for IDBs. This shows Labours commitment to challenge at hand.”
In his speech, Terry Jermy MP referenced the Welney Floodwatch volunteers who regularly monitor the Welney Wash Road, informing residents if it is safe to cross or not. Their efforts have reduced accidents in the area which is prone to flooding on a regular basis. Jermy praised the groups work during the debate.
ENDS
Notes to editors
[1] Video of full speech: https://www.veed.io/view/f46045fe-ed02-4621-a431-63b9cb0e22eb?panel=share
