Renewed urgency in implementing much-needed Sustainable Drainage systems that tackle surface water flooding can be achieved by adopting a more realistic and pragmatic understanding of the techniques available, drainage experts are urging.

Lack of expertise in local authorities, the need for a high profile public awareness campaign and the need for regulating building companies providing flood defence solutions were just three of the issues flagged up at a roundtable conference on flooding held in December.

A major new sea defence project for Clacton and Holland-on-Sea costing up to £27million is being prepared to go out to public consultation.

Increased investment in flood infrastructure - with contributions from insurance companies - and more robust, realistic planning policies must be implemented soon or more UK homeowners will soon be in over their heads, warns the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM).

The Environment Agency is warning that flood risk remains despite rainfall easing -this morning’s Met Office forecast says that in parts of South Wales and South West England the amounts and intensity of rain may be enough to cause further flooding. The Agency is closing the Thames Barrier for this morning's tide in London to reduce the flood risk from the river after heavy rain.

A key part of the eagerly-awaited £21 million flood alleviation scheme for Morpeth has been approved by the local planning authority.

A £5m pilot fund for communities devastated by flooding or for those who are at risk has been launched today by Environment Minister Richard Benyon to protect their homes and businesses.