Devon Council OKs Flood Risk Management Action Plan

A £2.5 million action plan to provide greater flood protection to more than 300 homes has been agreed by Devon County Council’s Cabinet.

Councillors yesterday approved the County Council’s Flood Risk Management Action Plan to target flood improvements in priority areas across Devon, the council said in its latest release.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highway Management and Flood Prevention, said: “Flood protection has been improved for more than 280 properties in Devon over the past year, and this Action Plan for the coming financial year will help a further 300 properties. Our investment has to be prioritized, but we’re reducing the risk to homes and businesses.

“As the Lead Local Flood Authority we’re committed to implementing measures to reduce flood risk to communities across Devon. The devastating effect of flooding can impact on Devon’s economy and the wellbeing of local people. As well as progressing with schemes, this Plan will fund studies and design work to inform future improvements.”

A number of major schemes are due to be completed this year, including phase two of Axminster Millbrook which is due to get underway later this month, and road drainage improvements in Braunton which is already underway.

The Exeter Flood Defense scheme, to which the County Council contributed £3 million and is scheduled to be completed in 2018, is ongoing.

Flood improvement works are proposed in Atherton Way in Tiverton, Bishops Tawton, Cullompton, East Budleigh, Lympstone, Ottery St Mary, Topsham and Whimple, some of which are being developed by, or in partnership with, the Environment Agency, South West Water and local District and City Councils.

[mappress mapid=”23726″]