Rivers Authorities and Land Drainage Bill

A Bill to make provision about rivers authorities; to make provision about the expenses of internal drainage boards; and for connected purposes.

Originating House

House of Commons

Last Updated

5 June 2019

In Plain English

AI-generated

Rivers Authorities and Land Drainage Bill would set out the framework for rivers authorities and their powers, and it would make provisions about the finances of internal drainage boards. The Bill also covers other connected aspects of how rivers and land drainage are managed. In short, it aims to improve oversight and funding for drainage and flood management.

Key Points

Provides a framework for the establishment and powers of rivers authorities.
Sets out rules about how internal drainage boards are funded and how their expenses are to be managed.
Includes connected provisions on river and land drainage management.
Addresses governance and oversight arrangements for drainage bodies.

Progress

The bill is currently at Report Stage in the House of Lords after progressing through the Commons.

Who is affected?

Rivers authoritiesInternal drainage boardsLandowners and occupiers in drainage districtsLocal authorities involved in flood managementResidents and businesses in flood-prone or drainage areas

Generated 21 February 2026

Updates & Documents

News (1)

News - Rivers Authorities and Land Drainage

1 Jan 1970

Second reading - the general debate on all aspects of the Bill - took place on 16 May members discussed the creation of river authorities, flood risk management and government funding.

The 2017-2019 session of Parliament has prorogued and this Bill will make no further progress.