THE WAY in which the county council works to manage the risk and impact of flooding has been set out in a revised strategy.

Members of the public and relevant organisations are now being asked to give their views on the draft East Sussex Local Flood Risk Management Strategy, before it is adopted by East Sussex County Council.

The document looks at the level of flood risk across the county from streams, groundwater and surface water, the way in which the authority manages flood risk and the advice it provides for developers and planners to ensure new schemes include effective drainage.

“We have all seen the devastating impact flooding can have,” said Cllr Carl Maynard, lead member for transport and environment.

“With severe weather becoming increasingly prevalent, it is more important than ever to have an effective strategy in place to manage the risk and deal with the impact of flooding.  The consultation gives residents, businesses and other stakeholders the opportunity to tell us if the proposed strategy provides the right type of advice.”

East Sussex County Council was given a co-ordinating role in managing flood risk following a Government review which led to the introduction of the Flood and Water Management Act in 2010.

In 2015 changes were made to the planning system to make sure new major developments included sustainable drainage systems and the county council, as the lead local flood authority, was made a statutory consultee on this type of application.

The latest flood management strategy builds on the existing 2013-16 strategy, and takes into account the severe flooding of recent years.

“Working in partnership is key to the proposed strategy,” Cllr Maynard. “We will need to work together with other agencies, authorities and developers to co-ordinate efforts in upgrading and maintaining the existing infrastructure, raising public awareness and responding to flooding.”

The strategy recognises the need for an improved evidence base and understanding of local flood risk to ensure that resources are targeted in the areas of highest vulnerability.  Once adopted, the strategy will be regularly updated.

Members of the public and other organisations have until Sunday, April 10 to comment on the East Sussex Local Flood Risk Management Strategy. To take part in the consultation click here