§ Mr. OnslowTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment in what circumstances planning authorities consult the National Rivers Authority before giving their approval to planning applications.
§ Mr. Michael SpicerArticle 18 of the Town and Country Planning General Development Order 1988, as amended, sets out the categories of development about 251W which local planning authorities are required to consult the National Rivers Authority before granting planning permission. The Department advises local planning authorities also to consult the NRA where development is proposed on a flood plain or wash land, on in an area which the NRA has indicated might be subject to drainage problems or be susceptible to inundation by the sea or to tidal flooding. Advice on development in flood risk areas is in DOE circular 17/82. It is important that local planning authorities take proper account of the NRA's recommendations. I am inviting the NRA to consider whether there is any need for updating of the current guidance in the light of developments since 1982.