I am delighted that real progress is being made and plans will soon be put forward for the design and construction of the River Thames Scheme. Addressing flooding is one of my highest priorities for Runnymede and Weybridge. Our homes and businesses should not have to face risk, worry and stress each Autumn to Spring when bad weather is forecast, and the River begins to rise.
I have met with many residents’ groups and constituents affected by flooding and have continued to press for this progress despite the other challenges we have faced. Working with Defra, the Environment Agency, Surrey and Runnymede Councils, I have been delighted by the progress made this year. With funding identified, the outline business plan is with Defra and will be submitted to HM Treasury for final approval later this autumn. With this progress, work is now also underway to prepare the planning submission.
The Scheme will not only provide relief from those at risk of flooding, but marks a significant investment in our local economy, creating new jobs and community facilities. The plans will be subject to extensive public consultation, and I look forward to the discussions and developments in the months to come.
To see some of the potential options around building our scheme, I recently visited the Jubilee River Flood Alleviation Scheme near Maidenhead and Windsor. I was very impressed with how the Jubilee river has created a beautiful open green space and wetland habitat for animals. The River Thames Scheme is an opportunity to not just protect us but create parks and open green spaces for us all to treasure.
While I celebrate this progress, I know that there is still a long road ahead until the protections are in place for our local communities. I will continue to work closely with all parties until the scheme is completed.