I am pleased that the PM and the new Environment Secretary have decided to set up an independent enquiry into flooding. It is a good sign that they are listening to the worries many of us have about flood defences and anti flood planning and are prepared to take some advice from outside on what to do about it.

The review should examine

1. Why so many defences were not maintained in good condition, and how this can be improved in future.

2. How we can ensure drainage systems for surface water on highways and near developments can be kept clean.

3. Which ditches should be widened/deepened to take a bigger quantity of water.

4. Where new river courses can be created to take some of the excess water at times of flood, taking the water away from built up areas.

5. How future housing developments pushed through by government Inspectors can be conditional on improvements to the pattern of local drainage, given the faster run off of water they will encourage.

6. Where surface drainage needs improving urgently to handle the impact of past developments.

7. Where sea and coastal defences need strengthening

8. Where temporary or permanent barriers can be used to protect important installations or houses from nearby streams and rivers

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