11
The responsibility of riparian owners to maintain watercourses so as not to increase flood risk...
Conclusion
The responsibility of riparian owners to maintain watercourses so as not to increase flood risk to others is well established in common law. Obviously, individuals must first know whether they are riparian owners, and their responsibilities, if they are to be expected to discharge them. Risk management authorities also need to be properly enabled and resourced to identify and communicate the right management approaches for riparian assets, and enforce maintenance where necessary. The Government’s review of statutory responsibilities for asset maintenance should include reviewing the powers and resources of risk management authorities to communicate appropriate riparian management options, and effectively enforce responsibilities by riparian owners.
Paragraph Reference
48
Government Response
Not Addressed
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
Everyone has a role to play in mitigating flood and coastal erosion risk and making the country more resilient. This includes risk management authorities and riparian owners who play an important role in maintaining assets and watercourses. The Government has committed to ensuring that riparian owners are clear on their responsibilities and better engaged in the protection of their communities, and to ensuring there is a long-term approach to maintenance across England. The Environment Agency will develop and pilot new ways to provide clarity to riparian owners about their responsibilities. Alongside this, the independent review into the arrangements for determining responsibility for s
Timeline
Recommendation age
5.3 yrs
Report published
08 Feb 2021