Land Drainage

Advice on land drainage problems

The District Council’s role as Local Land Drainage Authority is defined under the Land Drainage Act 1991. The Council has permissive powers which can be used to ensure that ordinary watercourses are maintained in such a condition as to allow the free flow of water. These ordinary watercourses can be streams or ditches which may be piped or culverted. Most watercourses are in private ownership and the Council may use its powers to require owners to undertake clearance work.

The Council provides information and advice to householders regarding flooding and land drainage problems and has powers to implement schemes to alleviate flooding. All reported flooding incidents are recorded in a database which is used to prioritise investigations and possible land drainage improvement schemes.

If you require further information concerning land drainage please contact either of the officers, listed below:-

Steve Thomas, Senior Engineer
Steve.Thomas@midbeds.gov.uk Tel. 01462 611347

Martin Usher, Senior Engineer
Martin.Usher@midbeds.gov.uk Tel. 01462 611351

Mid Beds District Council has produced a guide giving practical information about what to do and who to contact in the event of flooding.