Flood work delays slammed

WEALDEN MP Charles Hendry has written to the Environment Agency expressing concern that the timescale for measures to prevent floods in Uckfield is slipping.

Mr Hendry said: 'There has been serious concern from the outset at the length of time it would take to put in place flood prevention measures, but it is clear that we are now slipping behind even this timescale.

'I am writing to the Environment Agency to find out the reasons for this and whether it is due to technical problems or lack of staff, as a result of funding shortfalls.

'If the problem is staff shortages, I will raise the matter urgently with the Minister, Elliot Morley, to ask for additional resources to be made available to the Agency to get on with the work.

'This year has already been so wet, that there will be growing concerns that we could see renewed flooding in the autumn.

'There would be real anger if no real steps have been taken to prevent Uckfield and Hellingly flooding again, after two years of talking.'