Priti discusses the River Blackwater Flood Alleviation scheme with Graham Verrier, EA Area Director and Aaron Dixey, Flood and Coastal Risk Manager
Priti discusses flood scheme with Environment Agency
Witham MP Priti Patel has met with the Environment Agency to discuss their plans to submit a planning application to Essex County Council for the River Blackwater Flood Alleviation Scheme. The scheme includes a proposal to increase quarrying activities in Coggeshall and Priti raised the concerns that the local community have with the Environment Agency’s Area Director, Graham Verrier, and Aaron Dixey, Flood and Coastal Risk Manager.
Priti said: “While we all recognise the need to improve flood defences to protect homes and businesses, these proposals have attracted concerns and objections from the community in Coggeshall. I was pleased to raise their frustrations and worries with the Environment Agency and press them to review these.”
“The Environment Agency will be submitting their planning application to Essex County Council shortly and this will be followed by a formal consultation on the proposals which will inform the decision that the Council will make. It is vital that all residents and businesses with an interest in this matter consider the plans and respond to the application as soon as it is published.”