A HEREFORDSHIRE man whose home was flooded for the first time in 50 years is calling for dredging to improve the flow of the river Lugg.

Robert Dowling, who lives in Lugwardine, wrote to Environment Agency chairman Emma Boyd in February after floods affected large parts of Herefordshire.

He believes removing the many fallen trees, branches and overgrowth which have accumulated along the Lugg over the years would help prevent further flooding.

Mr Dowling has asked for a program of selective dredging and ditch clearance similar to that which proved effective on the Somerset Levels.

He has also raised his concerns to Environment Secretary George Eustice, but is yet to hear back from either of them.

“Obstruction to the flow on the River Lugg has become appalling,” he said.

“There are fallen trees every 200 yards with debris entanglement adding to the situation.

“It is now impossible to even canoe on the river. I have lived here for 50 years and for the first time we had water in the house.

“The Environment Agency has done absolutely nothing to help the natural drainage.”

Dave Throup, area environment manager for the Environment Agency, said flooding devastates lives, and every home flooded is a tragedy.

“During Storms Ciara and Dennis in February this year Environment Agency teams worked 24/7 alongside the police, fire and rescue and local authorities to reduce the risk of flooding and keep communities safe.

“With ground already sodden from last autumn’s heavy rains and floods, parts of Herefordshire quickly became flooded, with the rivers Wye and Lugg reaching some of the highest levels ever seen.

“The Environment Agency prioritises activities which achieve the greatest benefit in terms of better protecting people and property from flooding.

"Dredging can be an important part of our maintenance regime nationally, where it improves the channel’s ability to carry increased river flows and manage flood risk.

"However, in many cases, dredging isn’t the best long-term solution because rivers can quickly silt-up again. It can even increase flood risk and erosion and alter the ecosystem and wildlife.

“We will continue to respond to blockages in the river Lugg that cause an immediate flood risk to property. If anyone notices a blockage they can report it to us on the 24 hour incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60.”

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