James Wild MP recently spoke in a Westminster Hall debate on flood preparedness in Norfolk, highlighting key issues such as the need for better coordination, harnessing local knowledge and improving welfare support, coastal flood defences and call for collaboration and forward planning.
James highlighted the urgent need to tackle flooding challenges in North West Norfolk, which has been severely impacted by recent record rainfall. Villages such as the Burnhams, the Creakes, Pott Row, Roydon, and Grimston have faced devastating floods, affecting homes, businesses, and infrastructure.
James raised a lack of coordination and funding for flood management, noting that Norfolk County Council, as the lead flood authority, lacks the power to enforce action or maintain critical infrastructure. James backed multi-agency collaborations to address problems, calling for more investment in pumping stations and other vital improvements.
James discussed the value of local knowledge in understanding river systems and called for better welfare support for flood victims, particularly elderly and vulnerable residents, who often receive inadequate assistance.
On coastal defences, James voiced concern over the Environment Agency’s review of the Wash East Coast Management Plan, opposing any "managed decline" of the shoreline between Snettisham and Heacham. Urging stronger commitments to protect properties, farmland, and holiday homes.
James welcomed the upcoming flooding and drought summit in January, emphasising the need for collaboration and decisive action to protect communities from future floods.
James stated:
"I have been to the homes of elderly and vulnerable constituents who have been unable to use their toilets, sinks and showers for many weeks, and all they have been offered is a portaloo at most. That is completely unacceptable. Far better co-ordination is needed. My constituents do not really care who is responsible; they just want people to take responsibility.
"Fundamentally, these issues are about working together. The inaugural flooding and drought summit in January will provide a forum to do that."
