Flooding Threat Action Blocked by SEPA

Silting Up

Historically, gravel extraction from river beds was a regular occurrence in many rural areas. However, regulations administered by SEPA now make this practice extremely difficult, if not impossible. Many local residents believe that, as a consequence, silt beds are building up in rivers such as the Tay and Tummel.

In his response to the MSP, Brian Healey from SEPA has stated: “The reason for authorising gravel extraction is to ensure that the requirements of the Water Framework Directive (WFD) are met. This includes ensuring that the activity does not lead to a deterioration in water quality, secure efficient and sustainable water use, and to promote sustainable flood management.

Strict Criteria

"Gravel extraction can have a significant adverse impact on the ecological quality of rivers, and studies have shown that gravel extraction for the purposes of flood management is often ineffective and may not represent a long term solution.”

Mr Healey went on to say that gravel extraction is allowed in certain circumstances but there are strict criteria which must be met.

Commenting on the response, Murdo Fraser said: “The reply from SEPA is somewhat predictable in its terms but, nevertheless, I find it very disappointing."

Parliamentary Questions

He continued: “A great many local people who have been in touch with me since December believe that the failure to remove gravel from river beds is contributing to the extent of flooding. Whilst I appreciate that SEPA has an obligation to protect water quality and the environment, nevertheless I believe that it should not be effectively ruling out gravel extraction if this would have a beneficial impact on water levels, and consequently flooding.

“I intend to pursue the matter further and will be raising it in the Scottish Parliament with the Environment Minister. If we are to see more regular flooding than in the past, with the damage to property and land which that entails, I believe that we all have an obligation to look at all possible solutions to mitigate its effects.”