Water courses, culverts and ditches
Property owners are normally responsible for rivers, water courses, culverts and ditches passing through or adjoining the boundaries of their land. Their primary responsibility is to maintain the proper flow in these channels and pipes and keep them clear of any obstructions.
Recommended maintenance
Many flooding problems are caused by blockages within the pipeline or at the inlet from a water course. Blockages can be minimised by the regular inspection and removal of debris. Culvert inlets are often provided with protective grills intended to prevent debris entering the pipeline and causing blockages. Regular inspection and clearance of grills is important, particularly during heavy rainfall, when loose debris can accumulate very quickly.
Environment Agency
The Environment Agency have powers relating to the main rivers in the district which include the Cuckmere, the Ouse, the Medway, the Rother and the Uck.
The District and County Councils have powers relating to the supervision of non main rivers and watercourses, which comprises the more extensive part of the land drainage system.
Drainage and flooding leaflet (pdf, 335kb)
This leaflet contains guidance to property owners about drainage matters, responsibilities and inland flooding problems within Wealden.
For further information and advice contact:
Engineers section on 01892 602458 email works@wealden.gov.uk
or
Licensing & Pollution Control on 01323 443555 email licensingandpollution@wealden.gov.uk
