A National Audit Office report into flood defences has called for developers to contribute to the costs of compiling flood-risk maps.
The report states: "It would seem appropriate for developers … to contribute towards their cost, especially when such users require more information on the risk of flooding in specific locations." The report also notes that development on floodplains can be necessary if housing or the needs of the local economy demand it, even when the Environment Agency has highlighted potential problems.
Construction minister Nick Raynsford confirmed last year that under the new PPG25 planning rules, developers would have to pay for flood defences and that building would only be permitted on floodplains in exceptional circumstances.
