Designation of Watercourses

It is the Council’s responsibility to decide which watercourses and sea defences should be maintained by the Rivers Agency at public expense. The Council “designates” such watercourses and sea defences. Over 6,800 kms of watercourses and 26 kms of sea defences have been designated since the Council was established in 1947.

In deciding to designate a watercourse the Council must be satisfied that any drainage works needed are outside the capability of landowners and that works at public expense on the watercourse would provide value for money.

Council decisions on designation or de-designation of watercourses are open to review by the Lands Tribunal on appeal by any aggrieved party.

The Council may also decide to de-designate a watercourse or sea defence if circumstances change and its maintenance at public expense is no longer justified.

Recommendations for designation / de-designation of a watercourse may be put forward to the Drainage Council by any member of the public as well as by the Rivers Agency or Government Departments.