A new bill proposed by government has ended the automatic right of developers to connect rainwater systems to sewers.

Developers must now put sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS) in place in new developments, under the draft flood and water management bill.

The flood and water management bill was unveiled today by environment secretary Hilary Benn.

The draft bill also aims to improve on the response to flood emergencies and to better protect the water supplies during droughts. The proposals will also see a clarification of the roles and responsibilities of those involved in flood risk management.

Benn said that the 2007 floods and the growing concern over climate change were a factor in the drafting of the bill and that the proposals would ensure the country was “better prepared” in future.

The consultation on the draft bill is open until 24 July.