Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, whether his Department is holding discussions with (a) farmers and (b) other members of the public on their opinion on the most effective approach to tackling flooding along the River Severn.
The National Farmers Union is a partner on the River Severn Partnership. It has represented farmers in a number of meetings where projects have been discussed, including the Severn Valley Water Management Scheme.
The Environment Agency and Shropshire Council have attended events with some local communities, however this has been reduced because of COVID-19 restrictions. Further engagement with all stakeholders and members of the public regarding project options for the River Severn, under the banner of the River Severn Partnership, will commence shortly.
The River Severn Partnership website is also due to go live imminently, which will provide further avenues for engagement with both the public and other stakeholders on any project proposals.