A CAMPAIGNER has urged residents living along the route of the Exe estuary to offer their views on how money earmarked for flood prevention should be spent.

Anne Marie Morris has called to people to take part in a public consultation process over possible changes to its flood risk investment.

She issued her plea after hearing presentations over the issue of climate change and its effect on the Exe Estuary at a recent event held at Devon County Council.

During the event, experts outlined what climate change would mean to the estuary, including predicted sea level rises – which in turn could lead to more frequent and more intensive flooding.

With places such as Dawlish Warren being in the vanguard of any erosion, Anne Marie Morris has raised the need for the area to be better protected from potential flood damage.

Ms Morris, who is the Conservative Prospective MP for Newton Abbot, said: “Unlike other countries, this Government provides no compensation for loss of land or property as a result of erosion.

“Unless urgent action is taken residents of the Warren, and many others, may face a future of higher insurance bills – if they can get insurance at all- rising tax bills to pay for flood defences from which they may not even benefit and no compensation for any loss.

“It is absolutely vital that those living alongside the estuary take part in this consultation. This is an important chance to make sure our views are heard, and it is one that should not be missed.”

If you would like to take part in the consultation, contact Jennifer Lockett, Exe Estuary Officer on 01392 382236 at Devon County Council or through the website www.exe-estuary.org

Story by Jon Wills in the Mid Devon Star