Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether she plans to take steps to ensure (a) Wessex Water and (b) Environment Agency impact surveys are considered in new planning decisions in Somerset.

The Environment Agency is a statutory consultee in the planning system, while water companies can comment on relevant planning applications.

By law, planning applications must be determined in accordance with the development plan for the area, unless material considerations indicate otherwise. This means that where relevant planning matters are raised, including as a result of surveys, the local planning authority should take them into account when making decisions.

The National Planning Policy Framework includes strict policies to prevent inappropriate development in areas at risk of flooding. Where these tests cannot be met, development should not be approved.