§ Mr. LidingtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if the Government has agreed with all operating authorities a common format for information on flood and coastal defence assets. [89741]
§ Margaret BeckettA common format for information on all flood and sea defences was included within guidance issued to all operating authorities by the Environment Agency acting under its supervisory duty.
§ Mr. LidingtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the Government's original target date was for the completion of the National Flood and Coastal Protection Database; what the target is now; and if she will make a statement. [89681]
336WThe most detailed breakdown of figures available centrally is as follows:
§ Margaret BeckettThe original target date for the completion of the National Flood and Coastal Defence Database (NFCDD) was 1 September 2000. However, early analysis indicated this was not achievable. Subsequently, the delivery has proved more complex than originally envisaged, and it is currently being installed at EA sites. The revised date for delivery of Phases One and Two is now June 2003. Positive steps have been taken to provide analysis and results required for other purposes in parallel with the database development to minimise the impacts of the delays.