Paving over the front garden to make space for cars could put your home at high risk of flooding, experts warn.
A report from the National Infrastructure Commission (NIC) has warned that 325,000 English homes are in high-risk flooding areas – meaning they have at least a 60 per cent chance of being flooded in the next 30 years.
It claims that the spread of watertight surfaces, such as paved-over gardens, could move a further 65,000 properties into the high-risk category by 2055.
The NIC says around £12billion of investment over the next 30 years will be necessary to stop 600,000 homes flooding due to inadequate drainage.
The National Infrastructure Commission (NIC) has warned that 325,000 English homes are in high-risk flooding areas. Pictured: Hull floods in June 2007
The report calls for stricter planning regulations to ensure that new-build homes can withstand heavy downpours by adding roof gardens, drainage ponds and rain gardens.
Computer forecasts suggest 250,000 properties could be moved out of the high risk category by better investment in drainage systems.
Professor Jim Hall, national infrastructure commissioner, said: ‘It’s clear that faced with more intense rainfall and increased urbanisation, we need to start taking this type of flooding far more seriously.’
The report urges the Government to tackle the unplanned spread of paved surfaces, compel water firms to invest in drainage infrastructure and encourage the development of flood-proof housing.
Experts believe that by 2072, gardens will boast water sensors and flood barriers while homes will come equipped with means of escape such as inflatable rafts.
