The plans centre around a scheme which could see the intentional flooding of parts of Newtown and Caersws with a view to reducing the risk of flood damage further downstream the River Severn in parts of England.

They were revealed by representatives from the Environment Agency at a heated meeting of the council three weeks ago, and have drawn criticism from all sides ever since with residents, farmers and local politicians all angry about the way the agency tried to "sneak" the plans through without a full and open consultation period.

Mick Bates, Assembly Member for Montgomeryshire, said: "I am deeply disappointed by the lack of communication by the Environment Agency over this issue.

"There are particular communities in Montgomeryshire where residents are quite rightly concerned about the impact of the proposals on their homes. Yet the plans were rolled out without proper information to constituents, elected representatives or indeed local organisations such as the FUW.

"In Pool Quay, the flooding last July served to demonstrate just how many properties are affected and what a devastating impact floods have on a local community.

"No-one is against reducing flood risk but increasing the risk in one area to reduce it in another is a controversial step.

"There is a genuine concern that the policy will result in compulsory flooding of lands locally, which could put Welsh residents and farmers at more risk from flooding in order to protect other more densely populated areas downstream."

Lembit Opik MP echoed these concerns: "These plans are being pushed through despite the ongoing concerns of local people. It is hard for people to accept that they should allow their homes and farms to be made more prone to flooding, whatever the benefits to others in the area."

Regarding the consultation procedure, Mr Öpik added: "It is disappointing that it has been so difficult to get the Environment Agency to engage in a dialogue with local people on this issue, but sadly this could be a sign of things to come if the Government gets its way.

"I hope the Environment Agency will look again at these plans and actually consider the views of the people whose lives they are so deeply affecting."