MP writes to Environment Agency as 80% of residents oppose drainage board solution for Lyth Valley

South Lakes MP Tim Farron on Monday wrote to the Environment Agency's Internal Drainage Board consultation representing constituents' views and asking for more clarity, and for all options to be considered.

The Environment Agency has facilitated a consultation over the last month over plans to transfer the cost of drainage pumps in the Lyth Valley to a new local group.

As explained by the local Liberal Democrats' in their special Focus leaflet, it would be hard pressed families who would have to face the brunt of the cost if the original plans go through. A plan put together by a small group including some Conservative councilors would mean that thousands of local residents would face a council tax rise even if they would not directly benefit by the drainage.

After receiving a number of letters from concerned constituents, Tim has written to the Environment Agency to represent their views.

Tim said: "I and the local Lib Dem team agree that a solution is needed when Defra close down the pumps. However, it shouldn't be hard pressed families, pensioners or farmers stumping up the cash, especially when they get no benefit. A lot of the people who got in touch were retired and, not only felt they had no means to pay this charge, but also found it difficult to access the online consultation.

From my calculations, only 8 people told me they were in favour of this added council tax and a whopping 76 people were against whilst 17 people were undecided. I had a number of incredibly well-thought out and knowledgeable responses from people who have lived in the area for years, and who deserve to have their opinions and concerns taken into account."