Flood protection scheme funding delayed
PLANS to protect hundreds of low-lying homes and two schools from flooding have been delayed because of a lack of cash – just days after the Islander revealed them publicly.
The Environment Agency wants to fork out 1.8million to shore up sea defences on Hayling.
But work has been postponed for at least three years because the agency says it doesn't have the money.
The project was due to begin next year, but will now be delayed until 2012 at the earliest.
Havant MP David Willetts said: "It's good news and bad news. There is going to be flood protection, but it's going to be later than we had hoped."
Having pressed the the Environment Agency for more than a year over its proposals for the Island, the Tory said: "They have got to get a move on.
"Hayling Island is our answer to the Maldives. It's a real issue for Hayling if the sea levels rise."
The project will target three weak spots which are still vulnerable to flooding.
At Mill Rythe, the EA wants to strengthen sea defences to protect two schools and the holiday village.
Two secondary flood embankments will also prevent flooding to the Island's main road, the A3023 Havant Road.
Sea defences will be rebuilt between Langstone Bridge and Stoke Common and this should reduce the chance of flooding during a storm on the only road into Hayling.
The agency plans to improve defences at Saltmarsh Lane to protect homes in the area.
The work will also prevent any of the Hayling Billy coastal path – which is popular with walkers – being lost to the sea.
Environment Agency spokesman Joe Giacomelli said funding had been delayed.
He said: "Due to the increasing pressures of sea level rise, other projects from around the country have been given a higher priority.
"Although precise timings are not clear yet, the latest indications are that funding to start our north Hayling works will be available for the year 2011/12.
"Construction works should follow in 2012/13, following completion of the detailed design and necessary environmental assessments.
"We will continue to make the case for the funding to be allocated sooner."
The work has still to be approved by Natural England, which protects flora and fauna along the Island's coastline. But it is not thought there will be any objections.
The plans were originally announced in early December following a flood awareness roadshows at the Langstone Hotel in Northney and St Andrew's Church in Southwood Road, Eastoke.
Mr Willetts toured the area with Mr Humphrys looking at the areas at risk and inspected information aimed at encouraging the public to sign up for the EA's Floodline Warnings Direct service.
That automatically warns residents of possible coastal flooding – if you call 0845 988 1188.
The public body also issues three guides:–
Preparing for a flood which contains practical advice on what to do to protect your home and family, by creating a flood plan and making up a kit of essential items.
During a flood which offers advice on how to stay safe and what to do if water levels rise rapidly to protect property and save lives
After a flood provides guidance on how to recover after a flood, including cleaning up and filing an insurance claim and, if necessary, finding temporary accommodation.
It also contains essential information to ensure your home is protected from future flooding.
Mr Humphrys told the Islander: "People must be prepared for floods and know what to do if the worst happens. All households should read our three new guides as in many cases, preparation makes a big difference.
To obtain copies of the guide log on to www.environment-agency.gov.uk/flood or call the Floodline on the number above.
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Weather for Hayling
Friday 25 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 13 C to 25 C
Wind Speed: 22 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 13 C to 23 C
Wind Speed: 24 mph
Wind direction: East
