NOW that the Environment Agency has unveiled its proposals for flood protection in Kendal, it seems to me that three things are really important.

Firstly, the people of Kendal need to give their views on the details, and decide whether they support the proposals.

Secondly the Environment Agency needs to work really fast to get planning applications in and, thirdly, both planning and funding approval need to be very very quick, if Kendal is to get all the funding it needs.

The North East Kendal Flood Action Group represents Sandylands, and we really need all the elements of the proposals built as soon as possible.

I believe that the rest of Kendal needs all the protection it can get too.

Spare a thought for people in Backbarrow and Keswick who are being told that the national government's 'funding formula' doesn't justify any spending in flood protection. At the moment Kendal does - so let's get involved.

South Lakeland Flood Action Partnership is running a discussion event on Thursday, October 11, at 7.30pm at Castle Street Community Centre at Kendal.

It is open to all who are affected by Kendal flooding.

Maggie Mason

North East Kendal FLAG