LANDOWNERS in Stroud have been asked to do their bit to mitigate the risks of flooding this winter.

Gloucestershire County Council (GCC) and the Cotswold Flood Action Group are appealing to those in the district who own properties with watercourses to make sure they are in a good condition.

With the winter months fast approaching there is a greater risk of flooding due to the higher levels of rainfall expected at this time of year.

This is the season to check watercourses such as rivers, streams and canals to make sure they are moving freely, and that banks and flood plains are clear of obstruction.

Someone who owns property next to a watercourse or has a watercourse running through it is called a ‘riparian owner’.

Riparian owners are responsible for helping to manage the risk of flooding by clearing debris from their stretch of the watercourse, even if it not their fault that the debris is there.

Whether it is a man-made or a natural obstruction, a riparian owner is responsible for keeping the watercourse clear of items such as litter, grass cuttings, animal carcasses and fallen trees.

They are also responsible for maintaining any culverts, weirs, trash screens and mill gates on their land.

Anyone unsure whether they are a riparian owner of a watercourse running through their land should check the deeds of their property.

Where a watercourse marks the boundary between adjoining properties, it is normally presumed the riparian owner owns land up to the centreline of the watercourse.

Councillor Vernon Smith, cabinet member for highways and flood at GCC and chairman of the Cotswold Flood Action Group said, “The emotional, physical and financial impact of your home being flooded can be devastating.

“With winter on the way we’re asking riparian owners to act now and check that their watercourses are flowing freely. This will reduce the risk of their home, and their neighbour’s homes, being flooded this winter.”

If you own land or property next to a river, stream or ditch there is a guide produced by the Environment Agency called ‘Living on the edge’ which explains your rights and responsibilities.

Visit: www.gov.uk/government/publications/riverside-ownership-rights-and-responsibilities