Sarah Gibson, the Member of Parliament for Chippenham, has raised concerns over the lack of immediate support for residents and businesses affected by the devastating floods caused by Storm Bert.
After raising concerns in Parliament on Monday, Ms. Gibson invited Emma Hardy, the Minister for Flooding, to visit Chippenham to witness the extent of the damage firsthand. The Minister accepted the invitation and toured the area with Gibson on Tuesday, 26th November, where they met with local residents, business owners, community groups, and councillors to discuss the ongoing recovery efforts.
Commenting on the situation, Gibson emphasised her commitment to supporting constituents in the aftermath of the storm. “My first priority on Monday was to support residents who needed housing and to meet with businesses clearing up from the floodwaters," she said.
"Everyone I spoke to had one message – ‘why weren’t we warned?’”
While praising the efforts of first responders who tackled the flooding, Gibson expressed her concern over the follow-up response from local authorities.
“I was horrified to find out that Wiltshire Council didn’t provide an emergency contact number for people looking for immediate support during this traumatic time.”
On Tuesday 26th November, the Minister visited Chippenham along with representatives from the Environment Agency, Town Council, and Wiltshire Council, including Cllr Nic Puntis, the portfolio holder responsible for flooding across Wiltshire.
The visit included meetings with local businesses which were still recovering from the floodwaters.
Sarah Gibson added: “During our walk around Chippenham I was able to introduce her to local businesses like G Hatto Barbershop, who were in the process of mopping floors and drying what they could.
“I then led a discussion between the Minister, Town Council, Wiltshire Council, and the Environment Agency where I asked for immediate funding for my constituents and businesses recovering from the damage.
“I am concerned that a rural county like Wiltshire may not meet the required threshold that qualifies us for emergency support. I urged the Minister to investigate this matter as a priority, as I do not want my constituents to miss out based on some random metric. People need support now.” Sarah added.
She also called for a proactive approach from both the councils and the Environment Agency to better communicate with residents and businesses at risk of flooding, emphasising the importance of preparedness ahead of potential crises.
“This would give my constituents a fighting chance to manage the impact of any flooding,” she added.
In her closing remarks, Gibson thanked the Minister and local officials for their visit, pledging to ensure that constituents affected by the flooding receive the necessary support as soon as possible. As recovery efforts continue, the Chippenham community remains hopeful for swift assistance to rebuild and restore their lives in the wake of Storm Bert.
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