A plan to combat flooding in Bury is being opened to the public for a six-week consultation.

The Local Flood Risk Management Strategy sets out plans made by Bury Council to deal with the risks of flooding.

The main area affected by flooding is from the River Irwell and its tributaries, including Holcombe Brook, Pigslee Brook, Kirklees Brook and the River Roch.

Floods caused by surface water are also an issue in some areas of Ramsbottom and Radcliffe, and these problems are set to get worse with the predicted impact of climate change.

Bury Council’s cabinet approved the report at a meeting, and it will now be available for communities, businesses and landlords to offer their views.

Cllr Tony Isherwood, cabinet member for environment, pictured, said: “Local flooding can have a significant impact on the people and economy of Bury and risks are predicted to increase in the future due to climate change, increasing development pressures and changing land use practices that affect the way that land is able to naturally respond to rainfall.

“It is not possible to prevent all flooding, but it is possible to consider the risks faced and ways to manage the risks and potential consequences.

“In drawing up the strategy, we have sought to balance the needs of residents, the economy and the environment. We now need to hear from local communities, businesses and landowners with their views on the strategy.”

The strategy identifies where responsibility for flooding lies within the borough and aims to encourage different organisations to work together. The consultation will run until October 14, and documents can be viewed at bury.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=8175.

They can be seen at Bury Town Hall from Monday to Friday, 8.45am-5pm, or at the planning division reception at Knowsley Street on weekdays between 8.45am and 4pm.