A three-pronged bid to help flood-hit home-owners and communities has been unveiled by Somerset County Council. We trust the Parish Council will pursue any opportunities to improve drainage and flood protection in Horsington and the Marsh which this scheme will help, although inevitably most of the money will probably go to those who live on the Levels
The Council is proposing more than £250,000 in new funding to help those hit by floods. It comes on the back of £300,000 of funding towards schemes that help prevent flooding in the first place.
The proposals will see:
- A £50,000 grant to help people suffering hardship after flooding at home
- £200,000 in grants available for flood schemes
- £300,000 available to work in partnership with other agencies to begin to dredge key rivers including the River Parrett (But probably not the Bow Brook -Ed)
- A commitment to lobby Government and Environment Agency for extra flood prevention funding for Somerset.
“Cabinet member David Hall said “Last year we also made £200,000 available for individuals and communities to bid for funding to help prevent flooding. This year we are considering the same again with a further £200,000. These small grants can make a huge difference, and we are keen to ensure that Parish Councils and Community Groups are directly involved to ensure maximum benefit to their areas.
“We have already put aside £300,000 for river dredging. This money will be made available to the Environment Agency and we are working with others to boost this fund. This work includes lobbying Government and Government agencies for additional contributions.”
Somerset County Council says it is committed to ensuring everyone who may be eligible for emergency relief grants can access emergency funds swiftly. They are also encouraging anyone who wishes to help those most affected by the floods to donate. Donations can be made via the Community Council for SomertetSomerset website www.somersetcf.org.uk or call us on 01749 344949.”
Katherine Armstrong Chief Executive of the Community Council for Somerset (CCS) said: “Our Village Agents are out in communities and will reach as many clients as possible who have and are affected by the floods. Visit our website to see if you have an agent near you or pass on our details if you know someone who may benefit from our support service. Visit: www.somersetrcc.org.uk/work-village-agents-project.php
Details of how to apply for an emergency flood relief grant are available on the Somerset Community Foundation web-site www.somersetcf.org.uk.