MP holds meeting on Arundel flooding

The meeting, hosted by Arundel’s mayor, Michael Tu, at Arundel Town Hall and chaired by Mr Herbert on Friday, was attended by all local authorities who have responsibility for managing flooding in the town.

Representatives of the Environment Agency, West Sussex County Council, Arun District Council and Arundel Town Council were present, together with residents affected by recent flooding.

The meeting considered proposals in a study commissioned by the Environment Agency to prevent more serious flooding in the future.

The strategy sets out a long term £23m solution to improve the river’s flood defences and protect properties.

Within ten to 20 years, 139 residential and 29 commercial properties are expected to be at risk, while within 50 to 100 years that number could rise to 366 residential and 91 commercial properties.

The first phase of the projected works would take place over the next 20 years and would cost £10m.

Central Government, through the Environment Agency, would fund a third of this cost, with the rest coming from partnership funding.

Mr Herbert said that he would be holding further meetings as necessary in other areas affected by flooding and drainage problems in his constituency.