Welshpool flooding scheme to go on public display

A proposed scheme to reduce the risk of flooding in Welshpool was set to go on show to the public today.

The plans for Welshpool were due to be unveiled at the Corn Exchange inside the town hall.

Work on the scheme is set to begin later this year thanks to funding from the Welsh Assembly.

It is hoped the event, organised by Powys County Council and the Welsh Assembly, will give people the chance to find out what is going to be done and how much of a risk their home is at from flooding.

Emma Savage, Powys County Council spokeswoman, said: "The council is partnering with Environment Agency Wales to host the event, which is designed to raise awareness of flooding in Welshpool.

"Officers from the Agency's Flood Awareness Wales campaign will be on hand to advise local people about the risk to their area, and to provide information and tips on practical steps to take now to help protect their property for the future.

"Powys County Council will be exhibiting details of a proposed scheme to reduce the risk of flooding in Welshpool.

"The scheme is grant aided by the Welsh Assembly and European Union, with work programmed to commence this summer."

Miss Savage said the Flood Awareness Wales campaign would offer residents advice on what they can do to prepare for flooding, reduce the impact of flood water to properties and ensure personal safety in the event of a flood."

The event in Welshpool coincides with Exercise Watermark, the largest emergency exercise ever undertaken in the UK, designed to test preparedness to respond to catastrophic flooding.