Readers support Wye campaign

RESIDENTS worried that the River Wye will run dry if a new housing estate is built will be given the chance to voice their concerns next year, says Wycombe District Council.

The Star, which last week urged readers to save the Wye, has received many letters of support from residents who do not want to see High Wycombe's natural resource bled dry. These will all be forwarded to Wycombe District Council.

The threat to the Wye comes from more than 300 homes which may be built on the Wycombe Marsh Sewage Works as part of Wycombe District Council's plans to provide 3,700 new homes between 2001 and 2011.

The closure of the sewage works would cut off a crucial water supply to the lower reaches of the river, endangering fish and wildlife.

The Environment Agency may consider pumping water from Pound Lane in Marlow to fill up the River Wye. The plan is among several options to restore the historic river.

At present around 80 per cent of water extracted by 19 licence holders is pumped back into the river by the sewage works. If the works closed, the water would still be extracted, but not replaced.

However, a spokesman for Wycombe District Council confirmed that residents have plenty of time to comment.

He said: "Much has to happen before any proposal can be implemented, not least the likelihood of a public enquiry in 1999.

"Any assessment must involve Thames Water and the Environment Agency and this is an issue which can be given the fullest consideration.

"It is wrong to assume that development would mean that any water extracted would not be replaced."

He added: "The Council is committed to maintaining the current flow levels of the river."

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