A PACKAGE of proposals to help businesses on the flood-hit Somerset Levels has been announced by the Royal Bath & West Society.

The society has been working with a variety of partners including Somerset County Council, the Environment Agency, the RSPB, Somerset Wildlife Trust and Somerset Internal Drainage Boards, on developing the Government- initiated Somerset Flood Action Plan (FAP).

The newly-named Somerset Levels Development Fund (SLDF), formerly known as the Somerset Levels Relief Fund (SLRF), will be seeking money to develop a number of programmes to broaden the economic base of the Somerset Levels and Moors using the environment as a unique selling point.

Plans include a pilot investigation to identify the merits of having an Ecological Enterprise Zone on the Levels, where businesses would be encouraged and supported to collaborate in making more use of the economic value of the Levels and Moors.

Also outlined is a scheme that encourages businesses to develop collectively the opportunities to make the most of the economic value of the Levels by joint marketing, establishing new visitor facilities and services such as wildlife safaris.

Edwin White, chairman of the Somerset Levels Relief Fund said: “While we are conscious that there are still many families unable to return to their homes and farmers and business in financial difficulties because of the flooding, we must focus our efforts on finding a long-term solution for the future of the Levels.

“It is about saying thank you for the kindness and generosity of so many individuals and organisations who have already helped us distribute a large amount of money to farmers in need.

“It is also a plea for support to help us fund long-term solutions for water management on the Somerset Levels and Moors that will be of benefit to everyone who lives, works or visits them.”

Speaking for the RSPB in the South-West, Mark Robins said: “There’s a lot to be really positive about here, and it’s great to be working in partnership with the Royal Bath & West Society to help address some of the problems so tragically brought into sharp relief last winter.

“The RSPB has always firmly believed that nature is part of the solution for this special place and we warmly welcome the proposals outlined by the Royal Bath & West Society.”

With the help of Somerset County Council, the society has been looking at ways it can fund projects which are outside the scope of Government funds.