TAYLOR&EMMET FLOOD EXPERT JOINS NATIONAL FORUM

A partner at leading Sheffield solicitors, Taylor&Emmet LLP, has become a national champion for flood risk awareness, by joining an independent body supporting communities.

Taylor&Emmet’s Paul Clarke is the latest expert to be appointed trustee and director of the National Flood Forum (NFF), a charity representing communities and businesses affected by flooding.

Paul, a solicitor specialising in business disputes, joins the forum after achieving recognition for his expertise in environmental litigation. Following his involvement in a landmark case in 2002 – Arscott v the Coal Authority – he developed an interest in flood risk and climate change disputes and now represents developers, landowners and householders, as well as writing for the academic press about legal developments in the field.

As a trustee of the NFF, Paul will have a role in the management of the forum, making sure it is able to represent the needs of victims effectively. As a director, much of his work will involve lobbying and Paul will be working closely with local authorities in the North of England, to raise the forum’s profile and improve existing infrastructures. 

Paul said: “I am honoured to be invited to join the NFF and to have an opportunity to make a real difference to people affected by flooding, not just in Sheffield but across the UK. My appointment to the forum further emphasises Taylor&Emmet’s commitment to the region and underlines our wider sustainability agenda that has already seen the firm sign up to the Legal Sector Alliance and Environmental Law Foundation.

“A report released by the Environment Agency in January stated that the 2007 summer floods cost the UK £3.2 billion – £2 billion of which was borne directly by the homeowners and businesses suffering water damage. I want to ensure that we do all we can to minimise the effects of future flooding and make victims aware that they may have legal recourse.”

For details about Paul Clarke’s work on flooding and environmental nuisance, contact Taylor&Emmet on (0114) 218 4000 or visit www.tayloremmet.co.uk. More information about the National Flood Forum is available at www.floodforum.org.uk.