Environment Agency issues warning to River Roding Trust
Summary
The Environment Agency has issued a warning letter to the River Roding Trust after investigating unpermitted works at Alders Brook in Ilford and earlier damage to a flood defence in Barking. The investigation found environmental harm including habitat loss, spread of Japanese knotweed, and non-compliant dredging that may have disturbed sediment and affected downstream water quality.
Why it matters
Residential property surveyors may encounter sites affected by flood defence works, invasive species, and permit compliance issues, all of which can influence risk assessments and due diligence. The case also highlights the importance of checking for flood-risk activity permissions and potential environmental constraints on land and watercourse works.
Key points
- Environment Agency issued a warning letter to the River Roding Trust.
- Unpermitted work at Alders Brook damaged wildlife habitat and spread Japanese knotweed.
- Earlier works at Hertford Road in Barking damaged a flood defence and involved unauthorised access to private land.
- The Agency said dredging was not compliant and may have disturbed sediment downstream.
- A flood-risk activity permit (FRAP) should have covered the works.
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