Planning system needs rethink

The government needs to rethink the planning system following this summer's floods, according to a leading insurer.

Tens of thousands of homes were damaged after high winds and heavy rain caused some of the worst flooding witnessed in Britain for more than half a century.

Insurers were left with £3 billion in claims, while the government has faced tough questions over funding for flood defences and its planning policy.

There are fears that home insurance policies will rise across the board and that some homeowners might struggle to find affordable flood cover.

RBS Insurance, which owns Churchill and Direct Line, has urged ministers to ensure planning controls are in place to avoid further building on flood plains.

"It is vital that the government learns lessons from this summer's floods and implements a planning system which is better prepared to meet the new and growing challenges of climate change," said Roger Ramsden, head of home and life at RBS Insurance.

A report out today, looking specifically at the flooding in Hull, identified problems with inadequate and poorly maintained drains.

RBS Insurance has called on the government to give a single authority responsibility for Britain's drainage system.

27/11/2007 16:46:36