William Eichler 16 January 2018

District councils could be handed flood risk management responsibilities

Local communities could have more say in how rivers are managed after a consultation which aims to transfer ‘flood risk management activities’ to district councils.

The Environment Agency yesterday launched the consultation that could see responsibility for managing flood risk on a number of watercourses given to internal drainage boards (IDBs), lead local flood authorities (LLFAs) and district councils.

If there is enough support, these authorities will be responsible for carrying out activities such as maintenance and giving permission to carry out works.

The move would only happen where the watercourses have a low level of flood risk, are not associated with major rivers or major city centres and where the local community supports the change.

‘The project aims to bring more choice to communities and local organisations in how watercourses are managed and maintained,’ said Rachael Hill, Flood and Coastal Risk Manager for the Environment Agency.

‘We want to strengthen local flood risk management and decision-making by ensuring the right people are managing the right watercourses.’

The Environment Agency is also looking at re-designating some watercourses from what is currently known as a ‘main river’ to an ‘ordinary watercourse’ – a change referred to as ‘de-maining’.

‘We want to hear from anyone who is affected by, or interested in, the proposals,’ Ms Hill continued.

‘This consultation explains how the proposed sections of watercourse are currently managed and funded and provides details on future management and funding if de-maining goes ahead.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Senior Project Manager (Regeneration)

West Yorkshire Combined Authority
£49,359 to £56,057 per annum (pay award pending) – Grade 9
With ambitious goals ahead, we need dedicated individuals who are ready to make a real impact as part of our expanding Housing team Leeds / Hybrid
Recuriter: West Yorkshire Combined Authority

Information Governance Officer

Essex County Council
£28349.00 - £33351.00 per annum + pension
Information Governance OfficerPermanent, Full Time£28,349 to £33,351 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Information Governance Officer

Essex County Council
£28349.00 - £33351.00 per annum + pension
Information Governance OfficerFixed Term, Full Time£28,349 to £33,351 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

HR Advisor - Pay & Policy (Career Grade)

Wakefield Council
Grade 9 - Grade 10, Career Grade, 24 hours, Permanent
Are you ready to make a difference and shape policies that foster a high performing and inclusive workplace? Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council

Leisure Support Assistant

Wakefield Council
£12,013.50 - £12,202.00, Grade 3, 18.5 hours, Permanent
Are You Ready to Make a Difference in Your Community? Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council
Linkedin Banner