'They would be a win-win-win' - Shropshire MP pitches rainwater pipe scheme to cut flood risk and water bills

The Labour MP said these pipes would collect and store rainwater for non-drinking uses such as toilet flushing, garden watering and car washing.

Mrs Buckley described her proposal as a "small MP piping up with a big idea".

She said: "The Minister listened to my suggestion for a new bill that would encourage housing developers to add these water pipes to make good use of rainwater. People would be able to use the rainwater for toilet flushing, watering their gardens and washing their cars.

"I’m proposing a fast-track licence to install water utilities for those housing developers who add these rainwater pipes. The Minister is now considering my proposal."

Mrs Buckley claimed the rainwater pipes would save time, water, money on water bills, and reduce the chances of flooding.

"They would be a win-win-win," she continued.

"Reducing demand for highly treated drinking water saves our reservoirs and protects us from drought.

"The rainwater channelled into the pipes would reduce groundwater flooding, often found where too much concrete and not enough drainage leads to deep puddles on pavements and roads. By regularly removing that rainwater build-up, the chance of flooding will be better managed.

"Current delays to utility connection licenses can hold up new housing by developers by up to 18 months. I am proposing a fast-track licence within six months for those house builders who are prepared to include these rainwater pipes."

The Shrewsbury MP said policy specialists will now look at the regulations and structures in place to check if the scheme is possible.

Mrs Buckley added: "The next step is for me to present my idea to the Housing Ministry. Watch this space."