DEFENCE measures being checked but no panic after flood risk report

FLOOD warnings have spar-ked a raft of safety reviews across the New Forest, the Daily Echo can reveal.

Business and civic leaders are investigating their flood defences in response to a report published by the environment Agency.

Areas of Brockenhurst, Lymington, Fawley and Totton have been categorised as being at 'significant risk' of flooding.

Bosses at Exxon Mobil's Fawley refinery have announced plans to review defences after parts of its petro-chemical plant were also classed in the significant risk zone.

But civic engineers tasked with addressing the situation have told residents not to panic.

Stuart Beaton, assistant engineer for New Forest District Council, said fewer homes in the Forest were now inside the danger zone than before and no special measures are planned in response to the report.

Nigel Burt, spokesman for Fawley refinery, said Exxon Mobil already took very seriously any flooding risks but would again review

its position in light of the report.

He said: "Exxon Mobil will be working very closely with the Environ-ment Agency so the site does not get flooded."

Derek Biggs, town clerk for Totton and Eling Town Council, said: "It's quite a major issue in a town that's only a few feet above sea level.

"We will be discussing with the drainage authority and Southern Water to check what is in place and what needs to be improved."

Ian Tripp, strategic planning and improvements team leader for the Environment Agency, warned homeowners at moderate or significant risk to take action now.

He said: "They should make sure they've got some plan of action if flooding does occur, such as keeping important documents, a radio and other vital supplies upstairs."

Estate agents said homeowners should not be concerned about property prices.

For more information call 0845 988 1188 or go to the website: www.environment-agency.gov.uk