FUNDING for a major flood defence scheme in Pendle is set to get the go ahead this week.

The North West Flood Defence Committee (RFDC) will be asked to approve a £2.5 million rise in the levy put on local authorities across the North West to pay for flood defence work when it meets on Friday.

Part of the money would be used to pay for a controversial flood alleviation scheme along Pendle Water, Lomeshaye, Nelson, which was criticised by local environmentalists because of fears it would damage Lomeshaye Marsh, a neighbouring wildlife area.

The work will entail building up flood embankments and carrying out other improvements to the river banks.

The Environment Agency said the increased levy, bringing the figure to £24.43 million, would also pay for other essential improvements and measures to improve flood warning and forecasting. It follows floods last Easter, in which five people died, affecting nearly 300 properties in the North West.

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