Building on flood plains - a cautionary tale

A cautionary tale from the BBC "Have your say" website, from Phil in Conwy (Wales)

"I live in a low-lying village surrounded by flood-risk areas. Planning permission has been granted to fill a field with houses. The landowner played the system:

1. Apply for 1 house to be built - approved
2. Apply for 20 houses, with affordable units included - approved
3. Apply to have the "affordable" conditions removed - approved

So, thanks to our wonderful planning system, we'll have more surface water, more flooding, and yet more expensive second homes ...
Phil, Conwy"