Updated guidance has been placed on gov.uk relating to your responsibilities and the rules to follow if you own land next to or near a watercourse, and the permissions you need to do work around them.
In general if you own property immediately adjacent to a watercourse it is assumed in law that you own up to the middle line of that watercourse (subject to property deeds saying anything to the contrary). In this instance you are referred to as a ‘riparian owner’ and as such have certain rights and responsibilities. The guidance outlines these rights and responsibilities, and information on any permits or consents you may need if carrying out works on or near a watercourse- for example dredging, vegetation clearance or river bank repairs.
The guidance also provides information on:
- How to find out the level of flood risk on your land;
- what to do if you have flood defences e.g. pumping stations etc. on your land.
- Who the best organisation is to speak to about flood risk management works.
For further information contact CallFirst on 0370 845 8458