Memorandum submitted by Holger Kessler
(FL 29)
One of my greatest concerns in the public debate
since the recent floods is the blame laid onto the Environment
Agency for not doing their job properly. I feel a lot of the criticism
is unfair and what is really needed is increased power and funding
to bring together all strands of flood management and protection.
I used to work as a Geologist in Yorkshire where
south of York land at 5 metres above sea level has been undermined
by coal mining and is therefore sinking—the EA has to raise
flood defences. At the same time Inland Drainage Board are installing
more drains and pumps in the area, diverting more water into the
Ouse, where when it floods the Agency is called to task. Developers
seal the surface and create more run-off leading to peak flash
floods and again, the Agency has no control or say about this.
I feel the role of the Agency should be expanded
to include powers to stop development in flood risk areas, development
that increases run off and powers to regulate the Inland Drainage
Boards.
Holger Kessler
August 2007
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