Land drainage - Parish involvement

The Parish Councils across the Chichester District can, and do help a lot to reduce localised flooding problems for the benefit of their communities. Chichester District Council has limited Powers and resources in relation to land drainage and therefore promotes Parish initiatives as a positive way forward for resolving land drainage problems, for the benefit of all.

We believe that Parish Councils (with the support of the District Council) are the best level at which to tackle land drainage problems. This is because, Parish Council's...

• are better aware of re-occurring flooding hotspots, from first hand experience;
• often know who the major landowners with riparian responsibilities in the area are, or can easily find this out;
• have it in their best interests to prevent flooding, as members of the Parish are directly affected by it;
• are more likely to get a quick action from landowners, as most landowners respond better to a friendly Parish Council face, rather than a impersonal letter from the District Council;
• can keep an eye on any progress being made and chase for action, where required.
• generally have willing volunteers and therefore a resource that the District Council cannot commit.

The Council's 'drainage - help and advice' pages include information on responsibilities and best practice to prevent flooding and pollution, whilst enhancing the environment. Parish Councils that are willing to take a more proactive response to land drainage should familiarize themselves with this information first. The 'Parish pages' provide details of Parish Council Initiatives that are leading the way on reducing land drainage issues for their parishioners. If you wish to contact your Parish Clerk, please do so, following the contact details that are attached.