17-June-2008
Local authorities could also get new powers to ensure drains are properly maintained.
Under planned Government legislation, the Environment Agency will be given the lead role nationally for tackling flooding, while councils will take on responsibility for surface water run-off in their communities, supported by the agency.
Much of the flooding in Hull following the June 25 downpours was blamed on surface water drainage.
In the wake of the disaster, the Mail launched its Never Again campaign and devised a 10-point action that was presented to the Prime Minister Gordon Brown earlier this year.
Among the measures called for in the plan, was the establishment of one overall drainage board to ensure the ownership and responsibility of watercourses in Hull and the East Riding is clear.
The changes in the proposed Flood and Water Bill echo many of the demands made in the Never Again campaign and are expected to be in line with the key findings of the Government's floods review being carried out by Sir Michael Pitt, which has highlighted the need for clearer lines of responsibility.
Councillor Laurie Cross, chairman of the East Riding Flood Review Panel, welcomed the move to give the authority the power to ensure organisations and landowners maintained drainage systems.
He said: “This is a crucial element of the proposals, but again if that is not backed up, it will be worthless.
“We need the powers to make organisations and landowners fulfil their obligations by maintaining drains on their land.
“We also need the Government to give us the financial and statutory backing to enforce those powers.”
Hull City Council leader Carl Minns said he welcomed the proposals in the new Bill.
“I welcome the proposals to allow councils to take responsibility of surface water issues. However, the Government has to make sure the right level of funding is in place first.”