Meeting over flooding problem

People in Powys are being urged to take part in a consultation aimed to combat flooding across the region.

Government officials will put forward proposals in Llandrindod Wells tomorrow in a bid to tackle flooding in Wales.

The Welsh Assembly has outlined new plans to deal with flooding across the country.

The improvements have been prompted by the flooding experienced in parts of Powys in the summer of 2007 including areas in Bettws Cedewain, near Newtown, and Llandrinio.

The Assembly is currently consulting on a draft Flood and Water Management Bill.

It could mean that some local authorities, including Powys County Council, will be responsible for handling all queries on flooding within their areas and for coordinating the response. At the moment the Environment Agency is the contact.

Mick Bates, AM for Montgomeryshire, urged stakeholders to attend to discuss the proposals and the implications for Wales.

The workshop will be held at the Pavilion Conference Venue in Llandrindod Wells from 2pm.

Mr Bates said: "There are a number of issues under the draft bill which are area specific, such as the different water companies involved and the impact of the Draft Flood and Water Management Bill on cross border issues.

"It is crucial that we ensure the best possible representation from every part of Wales into this process."