Alberto has called on Emma Hardy, Labour's Minister for Flood Management, to address the severe flooding that has significantly impacted communities and families across South Leicestershire.
In a letter to the Minister, Alberto highlighted the devastating effects of the flooding on January 6th, which prompted a Major Incident declaration in Leicestershire. The flooding led to Fire Services rescuing residents from their homes and vehicles, and caused extensive damage to properties, schools, a Baptist church, social housing units, and villages such as Countesthorpe.
Mr Costa emphasised that many of the affected areas had already been hit hard by Storm Henk and other storms in September and October. One constituent even reported that the installation of their new kitchen had to be delayed because the property needed to be dried out yet again.
The letter also raised serious concerns about the adequacy of the local drainage network, particularly in the context of new developments and ongoing maintenance. Mr. Costa urged the Minister to recognise that traditional responses to flooding incidents are no longer sufficient and called for a national conversation on the issue.
Mr Costa Said:
"We need this national conversation because, with climate change, we will face more intense storms and rainfall, which will increasingly affect our communities.
"This conversation must address where and how we build homes, as well as conservation methods to mitigate the impact of flooding."
MP Costa proposed several measures to tackle the issue, including preserving protections for Flood Zones 1, rethinking housing designs to withstand flooding, reintroducing beavers to help manage water flow and reduce flood risk, and urging relevant agencies to intensify efforts to dredge rivers and brooks.
Additionally, he called for increased investment to modernise the drainage system and recommended making water companies statutory consultees on planning applications to unlock additional funding through Section 106 agreements.
"It is time for an open and honest conversation and for the necessary reforms to safeguard our constituents and communities," concluded MP Alberto Costa. "We need innovative solutions to ensure the foundations of our local communities are secure and not left at risk from inaction or outdated practices."
