Barrow MP joins the fight against floods on Walney

Walney is home to around 12,000 residents. In the worst weather, the island splits into two, owing to onshore flooding from the tide.

Major roads and communities, including the 13th century village “Biggar” can become flooded and impassable, putting many homes and businesses at risk.

Previous studies have suggested that failure to mitigate against this flooding will see Walney Island being under water by 2050.

Walney is home to a caravan park with static homes and an onsite leisure centre welcoming thousands of tourists each year. There is a nature reserve which is home to Cumbria’s only grey seal colony alongside marine birds, wild flowers and other protected wildlife.

The island also has a 16.2 mile stretch of the England Coast Path which opened to the public in February last year. This path is already part-submerged in the worst weather. Another contributing factor to flooding on Walney is caused by manhole chambers which are maintained by United Utilities.

Simon Fell, Barrow MP, said: “Local people are rightly concerned by the prospect of Walney Island being under water by 2050. Walney is an incredibly important community to our area.

MP: Simon Fell

“I have held meeting with United Utilities recently to discuss the challenges presented to Walney by flooding through the manhole cambers. Given the location of these chambers, in a SSSI site, permission is required from Natural England before United Utilities can go in to inspect their chambers.

“I have been assured that permission is expected soon, and inspections can then take place. Following on from that, I’ll be back in touch with United Utilities to ensure that any work which is required is completed.

“If any resident has issues or concerns on flooding, I would ask them to come forward and work with me on the issue.”

Walney South county councillor Frank Cassidy has worked alongside his fellow councillors for many years fighting this issue, lobbying for funding, and making sure Walney's biggest threat is not forgotten.

He said: “We are spending tens of thousands of pounds addressing flooding on Thorney Nook Lane which is one of many hot-spots.

THOUGHTS: South Walney councillor Frank Cassidy

“I am pleased to see Simon Fell becoming involved and we will be happy to work alongside him to bring about solutions to the flooding issues on Walney.

“Despite massive government cuts to council budgets we are doing everything we can to deliver for our residents.”