Failure to maintain urban land drainage infrastructure exacerbates flooding. Here is the important message extracted from the Environment Agency document – Your watercourse: Rights and Roles (complete document available here)
Urban watercourses: additional considerations
Whilst it is more likely that risk management authorities will use their permissive powers to carry out the maintenance on urban watercourses, it is still ultimately the responsibility of the riparian landowner. Due to the proximity of homes and businesses, there may be a greater risk of actions impacting other landowners. Any likely impacts to other landowners should be carefully considered before commencing any work.
• Land ownership in urban areas can be a challenge. If your deeds
are unclear or you are unsure, it is strongly recommended to seek
legal advice to clarify your rights and responsibilities.
• As noted previously, a main river can include culverted (or
enclosed) channels, that may go under your property. These are
still considered a watercourse and the landowner has the same
rights and responsibilities as for open channels. Maintenance can
be a challenge and dangerous – as a first step contact your local authority. *
* Please note that I did contact my local authority about a problem in mid-2019 but I am still waiting (in 2026) for some effective action.
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