HC Deb 07 February 2001 vol 362 cc565-6W
Caroline Flint

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how frequently(a) the River Idle near Bawtry and (b) the River Don along the Sprotborough Gorge are dredged; and to what depth. [149067]

Mr. Morley

I understand that the Environment Agency has not identified a need for dredging the River Idle since a flood alleviation scheme was constructed. A recent visual inspection showed no evidence of significant siltation but the Agency is planning a full survey to check against original design depths.

The Agency has no plans to dredge the River Don at Sprotborough Gorge for flood defence purposes. I understand that British Waterways determine the width and depth of the river for navigation purposes.

Caroline Flint

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what measures the Environment Agency has planned for flood prevention and defence for(a) the River Idle and (b) the River Don along the Sprotborough Gorge. [149052]

Mr. Morley

I understand the Environment Agency has no plans to add to the flood alleviation works already in place from West Stockwith to Bawtry on the River Idle.

As far as Sprotborough Gorge is concerned, I understand that the Agency will be investigating the adequacy of existing flood defence measures as part of its preparation of a strategy for the River Don later this year.