MP slams Government decision to reject flood defence plans for Windermere

Local MP Tim Farron has accused the Government of turning their backs on Windermere after it was announced that they had snubbed plans for new flood defences in the area.

The Environment Agency had proposed a number of flood relief schemes for the town as well as at the lake at Bowness and at Backbarrow, but these plans were turned down by the Government as they didn't meet their 'cost/benefit criteria'.

Tim has written to DEFRA Secretary Michael Gove, urging him to re-think this decision.

Tim said: "While it's good news that we have secured plans for flood defences for Kendal, Burneside and Staveley, it's absolutely shameful that the Government have decided to turn their back on the people of Windermere, Bowness and Backbarrow.

"The Government failed to take into account the broader economic impact that this will have on tourism and businesses in the area.

"Michael Gove must rethink this short-sighted decision which will have dreadful consequences for both tourism and local residents."