Minsterley residents invited to influence local flood resilience plans
Dr Namrata Bhattacharya‑Mis, Matt Smith RSPAWIR programme manager with Doug Jones, of the Minsterley Flood Action Group
Residents in Minsterley and the surrounding area are being invited to take part in a community workshop focused on strengthening local flood resilience through the Severn Valley Water Management Scheme (SVWMS).
The session will bring together residents, local flood groups and researchers to share experiences of flooding and explore how better communication and new technology can support communities before, during and after flood events.
The event builds on earlier workshops held across the Severn catchment, where communities highlighted the challenges of receiving clear, timely and relevant flood information.
The Minsterley workshop will look at how this can be improved, helping residents stay informed and respond more confidently when flooding threatens homes, roads and local connections.
Attendees will also hear about new monitoring technology being tested as part of the scheme, including water level sensors that can provide real-time data. Researchers will explain how this information will be shared through an online dashboard, giving local people access to up-to-date local insights during flood events.
The workshop is supported by Shropshire Council through the SVWMS and the River Severn Partnership Advanced Wireless Innovation Region, working with the University of Chester as part of its Build Back Together project.
Dr Namrata Bhattacharya‑Mis, associate professor in disaster risk and resilience and programme leader in natural hazard management at the University of Chester, said:-
“This is about working with communities to make sure the tools and information we develop are genuinely useful. Local knowledge is vital, and sessions like this help shape solutions that people can trust and use when it matters most.”
The event, for which people must register in advance, is part of ongoing work to develop a locally led approach to flood resilience, ensuring that future plans and investment reflect real community experience.
The meeting will be held at Minsterley Village Hall on May 29, from 5.30pm to 8.30pm. Follow the link here to register in advance.
Residents are encouraged to attend, share their views, and help shape how flood information and support is delivered in their area.
About the SVWMS: The SVWMS is a cross-border initiative led by the Environment Agency, in partnership with Natural Resources Wales, Powys County Council, and Shropshire Council, and funded by Defra. Its aim is to develop a holistic water management strategy for the upper Severn, which could serve as a model for similar projects nationwide.
To learn more about the SVWMS visit: Have Your Say Today – Severn Valley Water Management Scheme – Commonplace
