DEFRA propose Flood and Water bill to prepare for flooding
Following the flooding of 2007 and early this year, DEFRA have unveiled plans to combat flooding.
After the months of flooding and cleaning up, DEFRA (Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs) is proposing a Flood and Water bill to make sure that we are better prepared for the risks of surface flooding.
The proposal outlines the role of the Environment Agency and how they will be charged with the responsibility of protecting and improving the environment in England and Wales. They will oversee the flood risk management for the country, whilst local authorities will take control of risk management of surface flooding in their communities. DEFRA will of course offer support to all local authorities and aid them in protecting themselves against the damage caused by flooding. DEFRA also plans to coordinate the response and clean up for flooding, again lending a hand to local authorities.
DEFRA’s response to the flooding comes after a call for clearer roles was outlined by Sir Michael Pitt, chair of the South West Strategic Health Authority. He is keen to coordinate much better flooding management and cooperation between departments.
This move comes after the Government looks back on 12 months of misery and people who are still not back in their homes following flooding.
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