The proposed new Internal Drainage Board (IDB) for the Lyth Valley has disappointed us because the opportunity to benefit farmers, the environment and the local community - a real win-win-win situation - is being missed.

The proposal is for an intensive drainage network to benefit high input dairy farming, but simply supporting a small number of businesses will not be viable economically in the long term, raises serious concerns over damaging the environment and wildlife, and will not prevent flooding.

If the current proposals are approved, South Lakeland District Council would be legally bound to contribute to the costs indefinitely. These costs are far more likely to increase than decrease into the future.

Despite this, when local authorities are increasingly challenged on budgets, there has been no discussion with the Council Tax payers who would have to cover this cost.

It does not have to be an “either farming or the environment” solution. A more traditional “low intensity” approach would cost less, with farmers potentially supported by the Countryside Stewardship Scheme, and with the valley benefitting economically, environmentally and through tourism. Many environmental organisations would be willing to work in partnership with farmers to make this happen.

SLDC Cabinet will be discussing these proposals on October 26. If you want your Council Tax to help provide a balanced solution where everyone in the Lyth Valley may benefit, please make your views known to your councillor by this date.

Douglas Chalmers

Director, Friends of the Lake District