Norfolk de-maining proposals: rationalising the main river network

The Environment Agency proposes to remove 3 stretches of watercourse in Norfolk from the statutory main river map. The watercourses would change from ‘main river’ to ‘ordinary watercourse’ – a change we refer to as de-maining.

This would transfer responsibility for flood risk management activities on these stretches of watercourse to Norfolk Rivers Internal Drainage Board (IDB) and Broads IDB. This would mean that these IDBs could determine flood risk management on these watercourses according to local priorities.

This proposal is to re-designate 3 sections of watercourse in Norfolk.

These sections of watercourse have a low level of flood risk to people and property, and are not associated with major rivers or major population centres. The proposals will strengthen local decision making. This helps the local IDBs - Norfolk Rivers IDB and Broads IDB - to manage the stretches 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 sections of watercourse are currently managed and funded. The consultation also provides details on future management and funding if de-maining goes ahead.