Water UK

Learning from the floods

06/08/07

Water UK has identified a range of potential issues that need to be reviewed and these include:

• Factoring climate change scenarios into business planning (the water industry is one of the first sectors to be doing this already);
• Reviewing storm overflow storage and operations and sewer design standards;
• Sustainable land use planning;
• The more widespread use of sustainable drainage systems;
• Reducing inappropriate flushing and dumping into sewers and drains, which contribute to blockages and sewer flooding;
• Reviewing the resilience of infrastructure at risk of flooding and coastal realignment;
• The promotion of catchment flood management plans and surface water management plans for all significant urban communities.

On behalf of the water industry, Water UK will contribute fully to the Government’s recently announced independent review of the floods.

Information for those in flood-affected areas

• Always follow the advice of your local water company regarding the safety of the water supply – water companies;
• People should contact their GP or the NHS flood health advice if they think that their health has been affected by contaminated flood water or drinking water;
• Prioritise your water usage to ensure that you drink enough water to keep hydrated;
• Use water as sparingly as possible where supplies are available;
• Check that elderly friends, family members, and neighbours have adequate water supplies.
• For the latest information call the Floodline number – 0845 988 1188

Contact

Bruce Horton, Policy Adviser, 020 7344 1817
Sarah Wilson, Communication Adviser, 020 7344 1809, mob 07 920 509 784