A TODMORDEN town councillor has accused the Environment Agency of "vandalism" after its up-to-date schemes were put on display for the public.

Coun Olwyn Jennings was first to criticise proposals after the Environment Agency gave out plans to Todmorden Town Council for the Bulk of Calder Vale Park to be used as flood defence by using the water to "escape" into the main areas.

She said that her question had not been answered, understood the public's concern, and accused the Environment Agency of acting like vandals.

And she suggested putting up models so the public would get a better impression of what was trying to be achieved.

Mrs Irene Sunderland accused the Agency of destroying the park for a long time by flooding it.

She said: "The park is beautiful, and something we can treasure. But they are trying to destroy it, and then tell us they are trying to protect it. What rubbish!"

Three senior members of Todmorden Cricket Club went to find out what steps were to be taken to protect the pitch against the standing water, and chairman David Highly said they were happier after getting an explanation and assurance about the cricket ground.

The agency admitted that there was a "significant flood risk" after the floods of June 2000. The agency commissioned a study into flood defences, and the detailed results were now put into effect.

It was hopeful that some of the work could be carried out before the summer and further work done by the end of the year.

The pubilc was given details of proposed working at Callis Bridge, known for its flooding at Callis Bridge, on the River Calder between Todmorden and Hebden Bridge, but were warned that the proposed scheme would not completely remove the flood risk in the valley.

Calderdale Council, which called in the Environment Agency, is expected to be given a detailed report and the cost implications at its meeting tomorrow