RESIDENTS of an East Yorkshire town expressed their anger at the council after it said it would not prevent a controversial flood protection scheme from going ahead.

A furious debate broke out at a town meeting in Market Weighton, after it was announced East Riding Council would not step in against a £2 million scheme to protect the area around Mill Beck.

Many residents claimed the scheme was a waste of money, as there was an estimated one in 10,000 chance of serious flooding in that area, and the money would be better spent upgrading the town’s sewer system.

Councillor Andy Burton said: “It’s nothing to do with East Riding Council. It’s a statutory requirement. It’s not an issue East Riding Council can have a view on.”

It is understood the Environment Agency has agreed to hold a public meeting to discuss the matter, but a date has not yet been set.