MEP warns of tarmac flood risk

Rochdale's Euro-MP Chris Davies as warned householders that giving their front garden a makeover could contribute to flash floods.

Using tarmac, bricks or cement to cover a garden contributes to flooding by delivering rainfall directly into storm water drains, rivers and streams where it can contribute to flood surges.

From tomorrow (Wednesday 1 October) homeowners in England must apply for planning permission if they want to cover their front garden with impermeable materials.

The moves are an attempt by the government to reduce instances of localised flooding across England.

The planning permission can cost around £150 and take up to 8 weeks to get approval. The government hopes these barriers will make people think again about using more environmentally friendly products.

Chris Davies has welcomed the change and says it is needed to help avert future flooding.
He said: "Our drainage system is already struggling to cope with heavy downpours as has been dramatically highlighted by recent flooding. The problem can only get worse if homeowners continue to tarmac over driveways and gardens."

Permeable surfaces such as grass, gravel and wood chippings reduce the risk of flash flooding by absorbing rainfall. A government report shows that just a 1% decrease in runoff leads to a 9% decrease in incidents of sewage floods.

The total cost of surface water flooding and water pollution amount to an estimated £270 million per year.