Isle of Axholme de-maining proposals: rationalising the main river network

The Environment Agency proposes to transfer responsibility for flood risk management activities on some stretches of watercourses to internal drainage boards (IDBs), lead local flood authorities (LLFAs) and district councils. This means that IDBs, LLFAs and district councils can take more responsibility for their local flood risk where appropriate. The Environment Agency has worked with IDBs, LLFAs and district councils to consider proposals to re-designate some sections of watercourses. The watercourses will be re-designated from main river to ordinary watercourse - a change we refer to as de-maining.

This proposal is to re-designate a section of watercourse in the Isle of Axholme, North Lincolnshire.

This section of watercourse has a low level of flood risk to people and property, and is not associated with major rivers or major population centres. The proposal will strengthen local decision making. This helps the local IDB - the Isle of Axholme and North Nottinghamshire Water Level Management Board - to manage the stretch of watercourse and carry out works where they see fit for the benefit of local people.

This consultation explains all of the information about our proposals, including information about how the proposed section of watercourse is currently managed and funded. The consultation also provides details on future management and funding if de-maining goes ahead.