Wigan and Leigh are set to benefit from a £2.4bn fund for flood defences after recent devastating floods
Water and Flooding Minister Emma Hardy recently visited Platt Bridge and Lilford Park to announce this investment. She met with local residents and businesses who were hit hard by the floods, where water levels reached up to four feet in some places.
During her visit, she discussed plans to prevent future flooding with local officials and residents. Makerfield MP Josh Simons expressed his hope to see construction start by 2028, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Simons mentioned that many properties are at risk along Borsdane Brook and other waterways. He stressed that a comprehensive flood defence project is essential to protect the community.
Emma Hardy shared her sympathy for those affected, noting how heartbreaking it is to see people’s belongings ruined. She promised that specific projects would be discussed soon and acknowledged the need for better flood warnings in the future.
Residents are still trying to recover from the floods, with many lacking insurance due to previous flooding in 2015. Mia Davy, who lost everything, is now in temporary accommodation and facing a long wait for council housing.
Dawn Royds, who was lucky enough to have insurance, described the shock of waking up to a flooded home. Local businesses are also struggling, with some considering closing down due to repeated flooding.
The community is rallying together, but there’s a clear need for effective flood prevention measures to ensure this doesn’t happen again. Everyone is hoping that the new funding will bring about the changes needed to protect their homes and livelihoods.
