The Association of British Insurers (ABI) welcomes today’s publication of the Environment, Transport and Regional Affairs Committee’s report on development on, or affecting, the flood plain.

Stephen Sklaroff, ABI’s Deputy Director General said:

“The Committee’s recommendation that there should be stronger planning guidance on building in flood plains, and only exceptional development in the functional flood plain, reflects the insurance industry’s concerns. Insurers want to continue to provide insurance for weather-related risks, such as flood. To enable the industry to do so, planning guidance to local authorities must guard against unprotected and irresponsible building on or adjacent to the flood plain.

“We are pleased that the Committee recommends that flood-proof construction techniques should be encouraged, and that sustainable drainage systems be adopted.

“Properly implementing planning guidance, together with good flood defence strategies, will help to ensure affordable insurance cover continues to be available, wherever possible, for households and businesses. We will continue to work constructively with the Government on these issues.”

Notes

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   Suzanne Moore 020 7216 7411 / 077128 41183 (mobile)

   
   
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