Future Flood Prevention

02nd November 2017

 

The Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee, chaired by Tiverton & Honiton MP Neil Parish, has today published its report into future flood prevention.

South West Water Managing Director, Dr Stephen Bird, who gave expert evidence to the Committee, said:  "This is a well-considered and wide-ranging report.  In particular, we endorse the recommendations to make water companies statutory consultees for planning applications.

"This would mean that water companies can support the delivery of sustainable drainage systems as part of any new development plans, moving away from the current system where developers have the right to connect surface water to a sewerage system despite flooding risks. These steps would enhance the resilience of key infrastructure and reduce the risk of flooding in the communities we serve."

Published: 2 November 2016