New Minister visits Somerset Flood Action Plan leaders

The leaders of Somerset’s 20 Year Flood Action Plan met new Environment Secretary Liz Truss MP today (Monday 28 July), when she visited Somerset for a progress update.

In an informal meeting with the Minister, members of the Flood Action Plan Leaders Implementation Group told her about the Plan as well as some of the key issues and obstacles.

Ms Truss (pictured above at Beer Wall) was given a progress update on all aspects including the schemes at Beer Wall, Thorney Ring Bank, Muchelney, plans for increasing the capacity of the River Sowy and the development of the Somerset Rivers Authority.

Councillor John Osman, Chair of the Flood Action Plan  Leaders Implementation Group and Leader of Somerset County Council, said: “The new Environment Secretary took a keen interest in the updates on work being undertaken by Flood Action Plan partners and is committed to working with us in taking them forward.

“This is the start of a long-term programme and her positive commitment gives us real encouragement for the future.”

The Flood Action Plan (FAP) is being delivered by a range of organisations co-ordinated by Somerset County Council. It will guide water and land management policies, and investment designed to reduce flood risks and increase resilience, for the next 20 years.