MP wants your flooding stories

PEOPLE in Cheltenham are being asked for their experiences of flooding – by the town's MP.

Liberal Democrat MP Martin Horwood has been appointed as his party's voice on the Floods Bill, which is expected before Parliament in the autumn.

Already published in draft form, it sets out the Government's plans for better co-ordination of flood defence, warnings and response.

In 2007, widespread flooding devastated Gloucestershire and left many areas without a fresh water supply for 10 days.

Mr Horwood said: "My suspicion is that there are still many unresolved issues people have and this is a golden opportunity for me to raise them at national level.

"The Government has spent years consulting but has still dodged some of the most difficult issues."

Mr Horwood says he will ask the townspeople what flooding issues he should raise by writing to them in the next few weeks.

In his letter, he writes: "It is two years since we all suffered the trauma of flooding and destruction in our town – followed by the loss of our fresh water supply.

"The experience of seeing Cheltenham disappear under torrents of floodwater two years ago will obviously shape my views – but I'd like to hear from you too.

"I'd like to be able to tell MPs and government ministers about your views and the kind of problems you are still facing – two years on.

"These might be to do with:

■ Planning permission being given that could make flooding worse

■ Insurance premiums or excess

■ Maintenance of watercourse and culverts

■ Flood defence works around the Cheltenham and elsewhere

■ Unadopted sewers

■ Flood alerts and warnings

■ Resilience of local water and electricity supplies

■ Emergency response

"Together we can make sure that the next time we are faced with such extreme weather – the town, the people and the Government are better prepared."

Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg said: "With his experience of supporting those affected by flooding in Gloucestershire, Martin will do a first rate job holding the Government to account."

Anyone who wants to have their say can email Mr Horwood at martin@martinhorwood.net

or write to 16 Hewlett Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL52 6AA.