Mr. RobertsonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what is the national planning guidance regarding the building of houses on flood plains; and if he will make a statement. [120219]
§ Ms Beverley HughesMy hon. Friend the Minister for Housing and Planning announced on 13 April 2000,Official Report, columns 249-50W, the publication of a consultation draft of a new Planning Policy Guidance Note 25, "Development and flood risk". This sets out proposals for a strengthening of the existing policy, which seeks to avoid inappropriate development in flood plains or development that increases flood risk. It gives specific guidance on the approach to new housing development. It recognises, however, that there will be occasions when other considerations outweigh flooding issues in favour of development proceeding. In such cases, it emphasises the need for development to be made safe through the adoption of appropriate protection or mitigation measures.