RUMOURS that the publication of new flood maps will slash thousands of pounds from house values and leave owners unable to obtain insurance have been denied.

National newspaper stories claiming that newly-unveiled Environment Agency flood maps would make some property uninsurable and make some homes virtually worthless were strongly rebutted by the agency.

In fact, the new digital flood map, unveiled yesterday, has been welcomed by the insurance industry as the most up-to-date and accurate available and will help them to assess customers' risk better, said a statement.

The new on-line map is part of a five-year, £30m investment programme which will give homeowners and businesses on flood plains the chance to see a classification of risk for their area for the first time.

The statement from the agency added: "The risk information is not new. What is new is that the level of risk is being added to the web site map. Importantly, however, the greater accuracy of the new map means that the risk assessment for about 100,000 properties has been reduced and they are likely to benefit in insurance terms as a result."

The agency's North-East flood defence manager, Mark Tinnion, said: "We are committed to providing as much information as possible as soon as it is available to help people to understand if they are at risk and what to do to prepare for flooding. Flooding is a natural phenomenon that we expect to see more of as extreme weather conditions look set to become a more frequent feature due to climate change.

"There are practical steps we can all take to reduce the impact of flooding, and that starts with being better informed."

Mike Moore, director of environmental services for North Yorkshire County Council, said: "Before people start to panic, they should realise that what the map says depends on flood alleviation plans by different authorities.

"There is no question of house values in the area going down or homeowners not being able to get insurance.

"We are leading a 100-year flood protection plan for North Yorkshire with other agencies and authorities. This is an active piece of work that will protect where people live."

Although he had not as yet seen the new digital maps, he said, maps published four years ago, known as indicative floodplain maps, were "crudely drawn".

The new maps will take into account the presence and impact of flood defences.

The benefits of the new maps include an indication of whether the chance of flooding is significant, moderate or low. They will be updated every three months.

Climate change and over-development have led to a significant increase in the number of homes vulnerable to deluge,

Mr Moore added: "There does have to be some consultation with Hambleton District Council where consideration might be given to take flood plains out of their natural uses."

The flood maps can be found at the web site www.environment-agency.gov.uk.floodmap or by contacting the Environment Agency's 24-hour floodline on 0845 988 1188 to request information.