Dr Garcia-Chevesich said this area of research was controversial because changing the design of flood defences was very expensive.

BBC: Reservoirs can make local flooding worse, says study

The Environment Agency has said it will work with residents of a Cumbrian town on the design for flood defences.

BBC: Cockermouth flood defences planned

"The design of the proposed flood risk management scheme is, on balance, considered to be acceptable, with regard to the impact upon the conservation area and the setting of adjacent listed buildings, " the council said.

BBC: Permanent flood defences approved for Upton-upon-Severn

"It would either make them think twice about building on flood plain land or it would make them change the design basis upon which they're built, " he told BBC Radio 4's Money Box.

BBC: NEWS | Programmes | Moneybox | Call for flood insurance change

Mr Bathmaker said the new design was much simpler, with half the number of foundations, which reduced the flood risk, and a swing section for river traffic.

BBC: Shoreham swing bridge nearing completion