Brian Morrow, who was speaking at an event called surface water management – recent thinking and the flood and water management bill proposals, called for clarity from the government.

Mr Morrow said there were ‘lots of fairly general’ statements and backgrounds in Defra’s guidance.

The guidance, released in draft form in February this year and currently under consultation, also talks broadly about legal compliance but doesn’t make it clear about who is ultimately responsible for their enforcement.

Mr Morrow said: “The contents of the plan are not readily apparent. It refers to scrutiny and audit but by who?

“Legal implications are mentioned but do they rest solely with the local authority, or does it filter down to other stakeholders?”

To view the guidance click here.

Luke Walsh

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