Are you “Living on the Edge?”: Revised flood management guide published by the Environment Agency

What is this about?

• In light of the recent dramatic weather, the Environment Agency have produced a revised riverside guide, aptly called “Living on the Edge” (4th edition - 2013) setting out the roles and responsibilities of Local Authorities and Internal Drainage Boards in the event of flooding.

What’s explained?

• Depending on the area in which you live, either the Local Authority or the Internal Drainage Board (IDB) will act as your flood risk management authority. They are tasked with providing support to those who own land that borders, or has running through it, a stream, river or other watercourse (technically referred to as “riparian landowners”).
• You will often need permission from your LA or IDB to install flood defence systems, with a normal application costing £50. If the proposed works are to have a significant environmental impact, planning permission may also be required. This may prove a small price to pay if the flood defences fulfil their purpose.
• LAs and IDBs have statutory powers;
  • to carry out works to manage local flood risk. These works might include maintaining and repairing buildings and structures, building new drainage works and machinery and operating pumps.
  • They also have the ability to serve a notice on a “riparian landowner” who has failed to maintain a watercourse, which in turn is contributing to flood risk.
• The LAs and IDBs also have a duty to maintain and monitor local flood risk management strategies.
• They must keep a register of structures that are likely to have an effect on flood management in their area; keeping tabs on who owns the structure, and what condition it is in. This is arguably more effective than a national organisation taking on such a responsibility.

What is SK’s comment on this?

• It is evident that greater responsibility is being taken at a local level for flood management, allowing for the implementation of more locally adapted measures.
• In the wake of climate change, increased local support to riparian land owners will hopefully be of benefit in combating the ever-growing flood threat that the UK faces during periods of adverse rainfall.

If you would like further information on this issue please do not hesitate to contact Hugh Pearce by email or telephone 01225 324406