Telford MP says flood barriers in Ironbridge 'a real hammer blow for the economy' - but businesses stay open for now
A Shropshire MP has labelled Ironbridge's frequent need for flood defences as a 'hammer blow' for businesses and residents during a speech in Parliament.
Watch more of our videos on ShotsTV.com
and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565
Labour MP for Telford Shaun Davies invited the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Steve Reed to the Ironbridge Gorge to see the effects that flooding has on the region.
Flood barriers have again been installed in Ironbridge after Storm Bert battered much of the UK with heavy downpours that have caused flooding around Shropshire and the wider country.
Today, the Environment Agency (EA) issued a flood warning for the River Severn at Ironbridge and Jackfield that said: "River levels are rising at the Buildwas river gauge following heavy rainfall. Consequently, flooding of property, roads and farmland is expected today."
It added that "no further significant rainfall is expected" during the next 48 hours, but that showers are possible.
The EA expects river levels to remain high for several days and asked residents to activate any property flood protection products, such as flood barriers and air brick covers.
Mr Davies said that anxiety "remains high" amongst residents and businesses during this time of year.
Speaking in the House of Commons on Monday, Shaun Davies said: "It’s a real hammer blow for the economy in the world heritage site each and every time the temporary flood barriers are erected.
