Do I need consent? - Ordinary Watercourse Regulation

The purpose of ordinary watercourse regulation is to control certain activities that may increase flood risk. Consent is required for any works that alter, or affect the ability of a watercourse to pass flow during flood events. Any works that create an obstruction within the channel will potentially require consent (this will include temporary works to structures such as bridges).

The images below provide examples of alterations or activities that will/will not require consent under the Land Drainage Act 1991.

This guidance is based upon Telford and Wrekin interpretation of legislation and "flow" should be determined as bank full flow.

Please note: should you be unsure if proposed works will require consent, or if you have any questions relating to the consenting process, please feel free to contact the Consenting team on 01952 384000, and we will be happy to discuss the proposals.

Work that will require consent

This table displays information about types of work that requires ordinary watercourse consent.
Illustration of work	Description
	Realignment of the channel - realignment or alteration to the existing line of the watercourse could potentially reduce capacity or obstruct flows.
	Pipe culvert (including the extension and removal of).
	Oversized box culvert (including the extension and removal of).
	Trash screens - alteration to a culvert and has the potential to obstruct flow.
	Weir/dam or impoundment or temporary works that obstruct flow.
	Pipe crossing (in channel) - consent required as could potentially obstruct flow.
	Channel width alterations - any works that reduce the capacity of the channel.
	Bridge - where soffit level is below bank top level.
	Bridge - abutments restricting flow.
	Bridge with support in channel - consent required as support could potentially obstruct flow.

Work that will not require consent

This table displays information about types of work that does not require ordinary watercourse consent.
Illustration of work	Description
	Bank protection works - temporary works that reduce channel width may require consent.
	Outfall within bank profile - structure should not act as dam or weir.
	Protruding pipe outfall - structure should not act as dam or weir.
	Pipe crossing (above bank).
	Pipe crossing (below bed) - temporary works may require consent.
	Clear span bridge - (where soffit level is above bank top level).
	Bridge - abutments not reducing flow area/width.