I am advised by the Environment Agency that the Ribble Catchment Flood Management Plan, which will identify the high level sustainable policies for future flood risk management within the catchment over the next 50 to 100 years, is now in its final stages of preparation. The Burnley, Nelson and Colne and the Darwen (including Blackburn) Flood Risk Management Strategies are currently being developed to identify specific scheme needs within those sub-catchments.
The Barrowford Flood Alleviation Scheme has recently been completed. Croasdale Brook, Slaidburn, Flood Alleviation Scheme has recently been completed. Walverden Water and Hendon Brook Flood Alleviation Scheme has been approved and is awaiting funding allocation. Investigations are in progress to identify potential flood risk protection measures at Bolton-by-Bowland and Sawley.
Detailed hydraulic modelling has been completed on Mearley Brook at Clitheroe, and flood risk mapping is being finalised for the area. New Flood Warning Areas continue to be introduced in the highest risk areas such as the River Hyndburn at Accrington, River Calder at Padiham and Green Brook at Padiham. Existing Flood Warning services are also being improved on a continual basis.
The Environment Agency continues to maintain and invest to prevent deterioration of assets in East Lancashire. 97 per cent. of defences are currently in a good condition.