Land drainage
Land drainage
Any work carried out in, under, or near a watercourse or flood defence in Northumberland requires approval from Northumberland County Council.
This requirement is set out in the Land Drainage Act 1991, as amended by the Flood and Water Management Act 2010. The approval process ensures that proposed work will not increase flood risks or cause harm to the environment.
Apply for land drainage consent
The land drainage consent application form and associated guidance notes can be downloaded:
The following documents are also required as part of the application:
- method statement
- location map and photos
- environmental protection statement or ecology report
- detailed drawings
- risk assessment
Send a digital copy of the form and appropriate documentation
Email: fcerm@northumberland.gov.uk.
Payment
We are authorised under section 23(2) of the Land Drainage Act 1991 to charge a £50 application fee per structure, with an additional £50 for temporary work within the watercourse. VAT is not applicable.
Payment can be made by card or cheque. For more details, refer to the guidance notes or
Email: fcerm@northumberland.gov.uk
Cheques made payable to Northumberland County Council can be sent to:
Northumberland County Council
FCERM Team
County hall
Morpeth
Northumberland
NE61 2EF
Process
We have a statutory period of two months from receiving an application to grant or refuse consent. Consent will not be unreasonably withheld.
Our consent does not approve the design or soundness of the proposed works, only their impact on flows, the watercourse, and its floodplain.
Contact the Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Team
If you are unsure whether you require land drainage consent or wish to speak to us before submitting a formal application
Email: fcerm@northumberland.gov.uk
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