Decision details

Cabinet considered the report of the head of economy, leisure, and property.  This set out a proposal for the council to take on agency powers from Oxfordshire County Council to carry out work under the Flood and Water Management Act 2010.  The Act was central to reducing flood risk from extreme weather. 

Under the agency agreement, the council would be able to claim all reasonable costs from the county council to carry out flooding investigations, designate flood structures and give formal consent, and enforce where necessary.  Cabinet noted that the council had the expertise to take on this role.  Riparian owners would be required to keep watercourses clear of obstructions. 

Cabinet welcomed the proposal.  The council was often the first point of contact for the public in need of assistance during a flood.  The agency powers would give the council more control over how it responded to flooding and in prioritising its resources. 

RECOMMENDED: To Council

to accept agency and all other necessary powers from Oxfordshire County Council to carry out work under the Flood and Water Management Act 2010 and to authorise the head of legal and democratic services to complete the appropriate arrangements.