Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what steps his Department is taking to protect the areas of Shrewsbury’s town centre, Coton Hill, Coleham, and Riverside, from flooding.

After severe flooding in Shrewsbury in 2000, the Frankwell and Coleham Head Flood Alleviation Schemes were built. These schemes are designed to protect 75 and 80 properties respectively. These schemes proved to be highly effective at alleviating flooding to properties, businesses and infrastructure during further significant flood events, including February 2022.

The Environment Agency has recently conducted an initial assessment for areas of Shrewsbury which remain at risk of flooding. Identified options have been explored and indicative solutions have been shared with communities via Flood Action Groups.

The Environment Agency is working closely with Shropshire Council as it considers options to redevelop the riverside area of the town. This includes exploring options for further reducing flood risk.