Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

New flood taxes could pay for storm defences

Amanda Brown
Thursday 14 February 2002 01:00 GMT
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

New flood taxes could in future help to pay for defences against rising river levels and stormy seas as part of a package of options being looked at by the Government.

The move, unveiled by the Flood minister, Elliot Morley, aims to meet criticisms that defences are underfunded and action is necessary to meet the threat of extreme weather.

The proposal comes after the disastrous autumn 2000 floods, and as towns including Shrewsbury and communities in Wales, the Midlands and North Yorkshire are coping with the effects of days of downpours.

Mr Morley said one idea is that house builders who want to put properties on flood plains should pay a one-off charge to help to fund flood defences in their area. Alternatively, the money could be raised through new bodies made up of councillors and other local stakeholders with the power to raise funds locally.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in