Dear Campaigner We like to update you on current information and proposals please find an update on the Flood and Water Management Act 2010 from Defra below and attached for your perusal. The substantive provisions under Section 30 of, and Schedule 1 to, the Flood and Water Management Act 2010(Designation of features), came into force on 1st August 2012 in England and Wales. The purpose of this legislation is to try and ensure that owners do not inadvertently alter structures or features and potentially increase flood risk. The authorities with the power to designate (the designating authority) are the Environment Agency; lead localflood authorities; district councils (whether or not it is a lead local flood authority); and internal drainage boards. These provisions allow the designation of third party flood and coastal erosion risk management structures or features that, in the opinion of the designating authority, affect a flood or coastal erosion risk. This makes it a requirement for the owner of a designated structure or feature to seek consent from the relevant authority before altering, removing
Planning consent granted for Cockermouth flood defence scheme
Good news – planning consent was granted for the flood defences yesterday. Another step closer. The flood defence scheme was granted planning permission by Allerdale Borough Council at a meeting on Tuesday 10th April, meaning the Environment Agency has been given consent to construct a series of walls, embankments and flood gates along the River Cocker and River Derwent that will increase flood protection to around 360 local homes and 55 businesses. Funding for the scheme has almost been secured, with a pledge from central government to provide £3.3million. Cumbria County Council and Allerdale Borough Council have also offered to make significant contributions, with the Cockermouth Flood Action Group, Cumbria Community Foundation, Cockermouth Chamber of Trade, local businesses and the local community working hard to secure the remaining funds that will be required. Once built, the scheme will reduce the risk of flooding in Cockermouth to a 1% chance in
Cockermouth Maintenance Management Plan Published
The Environment Agency has published the maintenance management plan for Cockermouth, it can be downloaded by clicking on the link. Two potential areas of gravel removal on the Derwent and Cocker upstream of the town were identified. The target area for gravel removal for the main Cockermouth channel are outlined on page 7 of the report. The gravel control and management scheme is designed to have the following characteristics : Be effective at reducing sediment input at the key area (which is the in-town stretch of the Derwent and Cocker through Cockermouth. minimise environmental impact maximise sustainability Be operational effective (have manageable access routes and be safe to operate). The strategy is treated as a live document and is correct to its evidence base at the date of issue. If forthcoming evidence emerges that can materially impact operational activities, this will be considered and the strategy updated accordingly.
Flood Alert
A flood alert has been issued by the Environment Agency today at 17.00 hours. The rivers Derwent and Cocker should peak at 3am and begin to recede at 4am. Further updates will be issues as we receive them.
