The role of lead local flood authorities
(RBWM is a Unitary Authority)
Lead local flood authorities (unitary authorities or county councils) are responsible for local flood risk management. This means ensuring risks of flooding from surface water, groundwater and ordinary watercourses are identified, regulated, and managed as part of a local flood risk management strategy.
They have permissive powers under the Land Drainage Act 1991 (as amended by the Flood and Water Management Act 2010) to regulate ordinary watercourses (outside of internal drainage districts). This includes maintaining a proper flow by issuing consents for altering, removing, or replacing certain structures or features on ordinary watercourses. They can also enforce obligations to maintain flow in a watercourse and repair watercourses, bridges, and other structures. Where required, this can include serving suspension notices, removing unpermitted structures, or prosecuting where in the public interest.
Lead local flood authorities must also investigate local flood incidents and publish the results of such investigations. They also act as a statutory consultee for surface water drainage schemes, planning applications for major developments and maintain a register of assets in the area.
Unitary authorities will also undertake the role of district councils.
Extracted from page 43 of – Your watercourse: rights and roles – dated 2024