AN ACTION group formed after flash floods hit homes in the area has praised the Environment Agency for its efforts in preparing the way for anti-flood schemes.

Members of the Skell Residents' Group met in Ripon this week to discuss the latest moves.

The agency has just announced that a study into the feasibility of a flood alleviation scheme for Ripon is under way, costing more than £2.5m.

The group was formed after unprecedented flooding was caused when the River Skell burst its banks in autumn 2000, affecting about 100 properties.

Action group spokesman Mike Deeming said he thought the agency was doing an "incredibly thorough job" in preparing the way for flood defences.

"I have been very impressed with the work that they have done so far," he said, citing a preliminary strategic review for the River Ure catchment area last year.

It has recently been approved by the county's Flood Defence Committee.

Mr Deeming said it was an excellent basis on which to proceed for a feasibility study.

The agency has said if a scheme is feasible, outline design would take place in 2002-03, with construction likely in 2003-04.

The Ripon action group will continue to be fully consulted by the agency on its plans and will comment on specific proposals later. Ripon City Council is among several other consultees.