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New building regs are being called for by MPs due to the continued practice of homes being built on flood plains. The government is also being urged to ensure mandatory installation of sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) in new builds. The House of Commons public accounts reported that there is “a disconnect between the developers who financially benefit from new housing developments and those who face the consequences of it not being sustainable or insurable”.

The report praises the Environment Agency for achieving its target to protect 300,000 homes on time and budget, it states “However, Defra should recognise that with new build on the flood plains and increased vulnerability to existing properties from climate change, the net number of homes that are better protected is actually lower.” Defra [the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs], is the parent organisation of the Environment Agency.

There is a fear that building on flood plains could increase by up to 50% over the next 50 years. The MPs say: “Planning policy guidance notes should be strengthened to avoid new builds in areas prone to flooding wherever possible, but in any case, the environment agency should be involved in measures to mitigate the risks”. According to Meg Hiller MP and chair of the accounts committee, floods are becoming very frequent, especially as a consequence of climate change. She stated “The risks to our homes, businesses, national infrastructure, food supply and whole ecosystems are not even being properly monitored, much less strategically mitigated.”

The report recommends new homes should include flood protection features such as sealed floors, and raised electrical sockets and fuse boxes. Adequate insurance cover is also an issue in these areas, and councils agree that this needs to be addressed. If you have experienced flooding in Bexleyheath, you can hire a submersible pump, or choose from a vast range of equipment at Rhinos Plant Hire.

 

 

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