RESIDENTS and businesses in Colne, along with those in neighbouring Nelson, are being invited to comment on long term proposals to reduce the risk of flooding in and around the town.

The Environment Agency is developing a new strategy to provide realistic options for managing flood risk in the Upper Calder catchment area over the next 100 years.

The strategy will be reviewed on a regular basis to ensure that public opinion and changes within the catchment are accommodated

Mike Maddocks - Environment Agency

As well as providing better flood protection for up to 2,500 properties, the Agency is hoping to improve the natural and built environment for the local community whilst also improving the prospects for wildlife.

The strategy will look at options to improve flood defences in key risk areas such as Barrowford, Fulledge in Burnley, Lomeshaye and Carr Hall in Nelson, and Lower Green Brook in Padiham.

Developing closer links with local authorities and other environmental organisations is a key aim of the strategy. The Agency believes this will have a significant benefit when it comes to improving river corridors, enhancing their surrounding environments and creating new wetland areas.

Mike Maddocks, the Environment Agency's project manager for the strategy, said: "Consultation is an important part of the development of the Burnley, Nelson and Colne Flood Risk Management Strategy. Consultation has been, and will continue to be, undertaken at a number of key stages.

"We welcome any comments and information relevant to the strategy, and, where appropriate, these will be incorporated in the final document. The strategy will be reviewed on a regular basis to ensure that public opinion and changes within the catchment are accommodated."

Copies of the draft strategy and feedback forms are available at the public libraries in Barrowford, Trawden, Colne, Nelson, Burnley, Fence and Padiham.

Any comments on the document should be submitted to the Environment Agency by 28th July.

For more information and advice on flooding call the Environment Agency's Floodline on 0845 988 1188 or visit www.environment-agency.gov.uk/flood

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