The Engagement and Modernisation Officer introduced the report of the Director of Neighbourhood Services which presented a proposal to deliver a Natural Flood Management (NFM) scheme on Council owned land known as Hoylake Carrs. The scheme was designed to provide flood mitigation benefits to the ‘Meols Community at Risk’ as defined by the Environment Agency.

The scheme included the development of wetland features across approximately 24.7Ha of existing Coastal Floodplain Grazing Marsh, which was largely a flat expanse of improved grassland. It was reported that Cheshire Wildlife Trust would deliver the scheme in partnership with the Council whilst developing a long-term sustainable strategy for ongoing management.

In response to queries from Members, the Engagement and Modernisation Officer confirmed that hydrological modelling had taken place and had considered the Newton Brook and Arrowe Brook, particularly where they met with the Birkett. The proposal would provide an additional 46,000 cubic metres of holding capacity which would have both upstream and downstream impacts.

A discussion ensued with some Members advocating a cross-silo approach noting that there was a flat run off on the land which posed a flood risk to downstream communities. Members debated whether woodland planting would be an effective solution however it was noted that this proposal was most in keeping with what was currently in place and would not impact on biodiversity.

Members noted that consultation with the local community was imperative to ensure they had all the necessary information about the proposals and requested that officers explore consultation options.

Councillor Max Booth proposed a motion, seconded by Councillor Vida Wilson.

The alternative motion was:

The Environment, Climate Emergency and Transport Committee:

(1)  note the acceptance by the Director of Finance of £430,000 in funding from the Environment Agency for the Natural Flood Management scheme at Hoylake Carrs.

(2)  authorise the Director of Neighbourhood Services to negotiate and progress with all necessary legal agreements, permits and permissions to implement the scheme once the following have recommendations have been undertaken.

(3)  that woodland planting is incorporated as a key element of the Natural Flood Management (NFM) strategy, targeting corridors along the Birket and other identified low-priority land-use areas. This would improve water absorption, reduce runoff, and enhance local biodiversity.

(4)  that a Birket clearance approach integrates with natural flood management techniques. This hybrid strategy will address both flood risk and ecological goals while minimising long-term maintenance requirements.

(5)  that a detailed consultation process with local residents and stakeholders is initiated, focusing on the design, prioritisation, and implementation of any NFM measures, including woodland planting and alternative methods. This will ensure community buy-in, and awareness.

(6)  the Director of Neighbourhood services is to assess funding opportunities to support these integrated measures, demonstrating their alignment with Cheshire Wildlife Trust and the Environment Agency.

Members voted on the motion with 3 voting for and 8 voting against with no abstentions so the motion was lost.

Councillor Liz Grey moved the officer recommendations, seconded by Councillor Harry Gorman.

Members then voted on the motion moving the officer recommendations with 8 voting for and 3 voting against with no abstentions and so the motion was carried.

Resolved – That

(1)  the acceptance by the Director of Finance of £430,000 in funding from the Environment Agency for the Natural Flood Management scheme at Hoylake Carrs (the scheme) be noted; and

(2)  the Director of Neighbourhood Services be authorised to negotiate and progress with all necessary legal agreements, permits and permissions to implement the scheme.