The ICE undertook a review of the Flood and Water Management Act (the Act) with the view to providing clarity on responsibilities, skills and funding issues.
The new funding mechanisms and creation of Lead Local Flood Authorities outlined in the Act mark a distinct change in the approaches to flood and coastal erosion risk management. These new approaches can be very beneficial if implemented effectively.
Flooding and coastal erosion are, and will always remain, a national concern. The Act provides local authorities with new competencies in the management of flood and water risk and the payment for outcomes method allows for closer local involvement in flood risk adaptation and mitigation. Although this local approach could be effective it must be implemented with a clear view of the national concerns that exist.
The Act is not a solitary piece of legislation and other legislation such as the Water Resources Act 1991 and the Coastal Protection Act 1949 must be considered when implementation of the Act is taking place.
The ICE has gathered evidence from government departments, independent witnesses and a plethora of organisations concerned with flood and coastal erosion risk management. This evidence has been used to publish a report which highlights concerns and issues that currently exist; however, the ICE is also keen to look into the opportunities that the Act provides and work alongside organisations to ensure that the transition into the modified way of delivering flood and coastal erosion risk management is efficient and effective.
Download a copy of the full report
View the launch of ICE's Flood Risk Management - A local issue of national importance