Agenda item

James Galsworthy (NRW) answered the members’ questions with Ross Price.

• Can you provide an update on NRW’s maintenance programme for the Nedern and its offshoots?

The maintenance programme for the Nedern involves annual grass cutting around September-October and in-channel vegetation removal around December-January. This work is done by contractors and used to be every other year but is now done annually.

• What exactly is NRW's role and responsibility when it comes to protecting river health and preventing pollution?

The responsibility for river health and pollution prevention is not within the remit of the speaker from NRW, and such questions should be directed to their enquiries team, as the ultimate responsibility for river health lies with the landowner.

• Whose responsibility is it to maintain the public land where the Nedern runs through Magor?

The responsibility for maintaining watercourses rests with the landowner. For public land, it would be the responsibility of the relevant authority, such as Monmouthshire County Council.

• Can we arrange a separate meeting to establish responsibilities for the Nedern maintenance and flooding issues?

James agreed to attend a separate meeting to discuss these issues, and it was suggested that David Penny from the internal drainage district team should also be involved.

• How effective is the current maintenance programme in preventing further flooding?

NRW recognises the significant impact of flooding on local businesses. The current maintenance programme involves annual grass cutting and in-channel vegetation removal, which has been increased from every other year to annually. This has improved the effectiveness in preventing flooding.

• What are the risks of the current level of maintenance?

The risks of the current level of maintenance include potential flooding if the maintenance is not sufficient to manage significant flood risks, especially in areas with limited numbers of properties.

• How effective are the relationships between NRW, MCC, and English Highway in managing flood risks?

Effective relationships between NRW, MCC, and English Highway are crucial for managing flood risks, especially regarding assets like the trash gate. Coordination and communication among these entities are necessary to address flood risks effectively.

• What responsibility does NRW have for maintaining rivers on land owned by Monmouthshire County Council or private landowners?

The responsibility for maintaining rivers rests with the landowner, but NRW has permissive powers to undertake work where there is a significant flood risk. This applies to both council-owned and private land.

• How is the Nedern managed through the Country Park?

Any work in the main river watercourse, including the Nedern through the Country Park, would require a flood risk activity permit from NRW. Coordination with NRW is necessary to determine the requirements for such work. The trash gate is a Highways England asset, with remedial work being their responsibility.

• How are river health and flooding related, especially concerning sewage discharge?

River health and flooding are related because sewage discharge during flooding can impact both residents and businesses. The health and safety concerns arise when polluted water affects these areas. There have been previous site meeting with Welsh Water to discuss sewer systems in local areas.

• Does NRW monitor pollution in the Mountain Brook, which connects to the Nedern?

NRW does not have the resources to monitor pollution in the Mountain Brook, which connects to the Nedern. Concerns about pollution should be directed to NRW's environment management team. Welsh Water is responsible for minimising pollution from their assets and NRW can take action against organisations that pollute.

Ross Price, MCC Project Engineer, commented on the member’s question from MCC’s perspective:

• He explained that the Section 19 flood report, produced after the February 2020 flood events, identified flooding mechanisms and affected areas, and made recommendations for various risk management authorities, including NRW, National Highways, and Monmouthshire County Council. He noted that NRW now undertakes annual maintenance, including clearing cut vegetation from the banks to prevent downstream blockages. National Highways has improved their maintenance practices for the M4 culvert and trash screen, including weekly inspections and inspections during significant weather events. They also have manual lifting equipment available if the hydraulic system fails.

• MCC has formalised its maintenance strategy for the Country Park section of the Nedern, which is in the final stages of consultation with NRW. This strategy will clarify who does what and when. Ross highlighted the importance of the relationships between risk management authorities, noting that MCC works closely with NRW and National Highways to address flooding issues. He mentioned that the Castle grounds and the industrial park are part of the Nedern floodplain, and flooding is expected annually. Only one property at Castle Lodge Crescent was directly flooded from overtopping banks during Storm Dennis, while other properties were affected by surcharging Welsh Water surface water systems.

Chair’s Summary:

Members acknowledged the significant flooding impact on businesses and properties, particularly during Storm Dennis. The importance of regular maintenance and coordination among various authorities has been emphasised. Officers highlighted improvements in maintenance practices, such as annual vegetation clearance and proactive inspections of the M4 culvert and trash screen and recognised the need for a formalised maintenance strategy to clarify responsibilities and improve flood risk management. Members appreciate the efforts of NRW and MCC in addressing flood risks and maintaining the Nedern, while noting the ongoing need for vigilance and collaboration.

The Chair expressed thanks on behalf of the committee for Mr Galsworthy’s attendance today. Members’ further questions will be sent to NRW for a formal written response – ACTION