After the torrential downpour that hit West Lancashire last week, Rosie Cooper MP called an emergency meeting with United Utilities on Friday to visit some of the places and the residents worst-effected by the rain in Skelmersdale.

Rosie has been contacted by a huge number of constituents affected by the massive rainfall, where flooding has caused great upset and distress to so many families across West Lancashire. A number of areas including Bone Island and School Lane were closed as the water flooded to a depth of 3 to 4 feet.

Rosie Cooper MP said:

"This is a complex matter that no single organisation can resolve. In the weeks ahead I will be working with all agencies to identify immediate actions and longer-term solutions to help prevent a repeat flooding in the future."

"West Lancashire Borough Council needs to look at the capacity and design of drains on housing developments, United Utilities need to asses if there are structural and /or capacity issues within each area, Lancashire County Council need to ensure their gullies are clear as residents reported gullies which were blocked. I will be asking for a complete survey and check on all gullies in Skelmersdale."

Having met with residents, Rosie continued saying:

"We spoke with residents effected by the flooding living on Fairstead in Birch Green and School Lane in Old Skem. It was really very sad talking to people as they explained how they were forced to use buckets and brushes in an effort to empty the water as it flooded into their homes. I saw firsthand just how badly damaged their properties are."

"On School Lane one residents concrete panel wall had been smashed by the sheer force and volume of water that forced the road to be closed. United Utilities are also clearing the debris from the flooding at Bone Island."

"I am grateful that United Utilities agreed to meet me at short notice. I know they understand the effect flooding can have on families and their homes. They are dealing with similar problems across the entire North West; my priority is ensuring that we get action here in West Lancashire."

Colin Maloney, United Utilities' director of network operations, said:
"We sympathise with anyone who was affected by recent flooding caused by the exceptionally heavy downpours. United Utilities staff were responding to incidents across a good part of the region and we were keen to accompany Rosie Cooper MP to meet some of the people affected in the Skelmersdale area."

"We have worked closely with Rosie on flooding issues in West Lancashire in the past and we agreed to meet again shortly together with other relevant local authorities and agencies to discuss the most recent events."

Rosie is encouraging any residents to get in touch with her if they have experienced any flooding problems by calling 01695 570094 or email rosie@rosiecooper.net

There are many ways to contact me.

Write: 127 Burscough Street, Ormskirk, L39 2EP

Phone: 01695 570094

Email: Rosie@rosiecooper.net

Fax: 01695 570094

Please note: You must provide your name, address and phone number with all correspondence.