Written question asked by Andrew Stephenson (Conservative) on Tuesday, 21 February 2012, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 23 February 2012. It was answered by Lord Benyon (Conservative) on Wednesday, 29 February 2012 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Floods: Pendle

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what steps she is taking to mitigate the effects of flooding in Pendle constituency.

Answer: In November 2011, the Environment Agency lowered a weir on Colne Water at Cotton Tree near Colne. This is providing increased flood protection to 77 properties. In Earby, the Environment Agency is undertaking culvert repairs to protect up to 40 properties from flooding. It is also refurbishing or replacing 10 debris screens to ensure nearby properties are adequately protected from flooding from culverts.The Environment Agency has commissioned Jeremy Benn Associates to computer model watercourses to assess gravel accumulation. Results of this modelling are expected in April and will enable more effective flood risk management in the area.At the end of February 2012, the Environment Agency will be launching five new flood warning areas that will serve a total of 1,216 commercial and residential properties.The Environment Agency works closely with Lancashire county council (the lead local flood authority) and Pendle borough council. There are regular meetings to exchange information on flooding issues and on the implementation of the Flood and Water Management Act.

Secondary information