The Kent Flood Risk and Water Management Committee met on Wednesday 10 June 2026 to discuss severe weather response, flood risk in Romney Marsh, and highway drainage. Key discussions included the ongoing challenges of water supply disruptions, the need for improved infrastructure, and the role of community groups in flood preparedness.

KCC Severe Weather Response Activity Report

The committee received an update on Kent County Council's (KCC) severe weather response activities. Andy Jeffery, Head of Resilience and Emergency Planning, highlighted that work had commenced to review and update the multi-agency response plan for water outages. A detailed report on recent water outages was promised for the next meeting. KCC, in partnership with the Kent and Medway Resilience Forum (KMRF), is working to ensure plans and capabilities are in place to manage potential disruptions over the summer.

Concerns were raised by members regarding recent water supply disruptions in Thanet, including the provision of water to vulnerable residents and the resilience of the water supply during periods of high demand. While acknowledging these concerns, the officer stated they were unable to provide detailed technical input from water companies. Members also expressed frustration over the perceived lack of progress and transparency from water companies, emphasizing KCC's public health responsibilities. Groundwater flooding was also highlighted as a significant issue, with a request for future reports to include information on its extent and locations across Kent.

The committee was informed that while groundwater flooding itself does not fall under KCC's direct reporting responsibilities for this specific report, any incidents requiring KCC response would be included. The importance of effective communication and information sharing between county and district councils during emergencies was stressed. Members also sought assurances on the implementation of planned improvements by water companies and requested greater detail on anticipated timescales for these measures.

Romney Marshes Flood and Climate Change Assessment

Louise Smith, Flood and Water Manager, presented the findings of a study assessing flood and climate change risks in Romney Marsh. The report highlighted that the area, a low-lying reclaimed wetland, is protected by tidal defences but faces increasing risks from rising sea levels, increased rainfall, and tide locking. The study, funded by the Southern Regional Flood and Coastal Committee Local Levy, aims to improve understanding of these risks and identify future management and investment options.

Phase 1 of the assessment involved reviewing existing data on flood risk, watercourses, and outfalls. Phase 2 will focus on modelling to understand the hydraulic interactions between watercourses, pumps, and outfalls, while Phase 3 will assess potential options for managing future water levels and flood risk, including innovative solutions.

Members commended the work and inquired about the potential for storing excess water for later use, particularly for agricultural irrigation. Ms. Smith confirmed that this was being considered as part of a broader water strategy to reduce reliance on mains water for agriculture. The potential for solar farm developments to increase flood risk was also discussed, with assurances that proposals are assessed for their drainage and runoff management. Concerns were raised about Thanet Earth, a large commercial greenhouse complex, being disconnected from the Southern Water supply, and Ms. Smith stated that while not aware of the specific case, KCC is working with the agricultural sector on rainwater harvesting and water resilience. The applicability of the Romney Marsh study's findings to other coastal communities in Kent was also discussed, with plans to share learning with partner organisations.

KCC Highways and Transport - Road Drainage Presentation

Carol Valentine, Highways Asset Drainage Manager, provided an overview of the highway drainage team's responsibilities and operations. The team manages a significant workload, responding to over 8,500 enquiries annually, and is responsible for maintaining approximately 250,000 drains, 250 ponds and lagoons, 15 pumping stations, and 8,500 soakaways.

Challenges include managing third-party assets, ensuring landowner compliance with drainage responsibilities, and coordinating with district and borough councils. The team operates a data-driven approach to asset management, identifying hotspots and informing future investment. Cyclical maintenance of drains is carried out on a risk-based schedule, with strategic and high-speed roads cleaned annually, and minor roads cleaned every one to two years. A new contract aims to ensure all roads are cleaned at least every two years. Reactive maintenance addresses urgent issues reported by residents and highway users.

Members raised concerns about recurring flooding at Drill Lane Ford in Ickham, where cyclists have been injured, and requested improved signage. The issue of flooding at pedestrian subways in Maidstone was also discussed, with a commitment to review the matter in detail. Questions were raised about the regularity of drain cleaning and the potential for publishing maintenance timetables. The significant backlog of outstanding drainage works, estimated at £5 million in 2023-24, was highlighted, with efforts underway to address this through process improvements and new assets. The drainage implications of new developments, such as the proposed 1,500 homes in Paddock Wood, were also discussed, with assurances that drainage considerations are incorporated into the approval process.

Kent Flood Action Group Forum Update

David Goff, Chairman of the Kent Flood Action Group Forum, presented an update on the work of volunteer-led groups in raising awareness and preparedness for flooding. These groups work with communities and agencies to monitor conditions, coordinate responses, and advocate for improvements. Mr. Goff highlighted the importance of collaboration between Flood Action Groups, parish councils, and Internal Drainage Boards, while also noting the value of the National Flood Forum in providing independent support.

Challenges discussed included development on floodplains, the impact of agricultural practices, and the need for river maintenance. Concerns were raised about the resourcing pressures faced by the Environment Agency and KCC, and how Flood Action Groups could support their work. The impact of climate change and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events were emphasised, along with the difficulties residents in flood-risk areas face in obtaining long-term mortgage terms.

Members discussed the effectiveness of flood warnings, the need for clear communication, and the challenges of increasing public awareness of flood risk. The role of the forum in relation to water quality issues was clarified, with Mr. Goff stating that the forum's focus is on flood risk management. The committee also discussed the potential for a water warden initiative, inspired by citizen science, to gather ongoing information on water quality and river management. The importance of retaining skills and knowledge related to flood management for future generations was also noted.