Context
Recent extreme weather events have highlighted the need for proactive flood management in housing development. Constituency-specific issue: The old golf course in Bradford-on-Avon, Melksham and Devizes frequently floods.
Question
Over the past week, many of us have seen and felt the proof that our weather is becoming more extreme. That is why it is ever more important to be proactive and forward-thinking in our housing strategy. Does the Minister agree that sites that flood frequently, such as the old golf course in Bradford-on-Avon in my constituency of Melksham and Devizes, should not be included in local plans and not be called upon for development?
Answer from The Minister for Housing and Planning (Matthew Pennycook)
I would say a number of things to the hon. Gentleman. First, local plans are tested for their soundness by the Planning Inspectorate. He will appreciate that I cannot comment on individual sites, but I again draw the attention of the House to the strong protections in national planning policy which mean that development that could be vulnerable to flooding should not be allowed in areas of high flood risk.
Not addressed: Specific mention of the old golf course site in Bradford-on-Avon and its inclusion/exclusion from local plans
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