Local Planning Authorities (LPAs) are crucial in ensuring that urban development adheres to sustainable and responsible practices, particularly in regions vulnerable to flooding. As climate patterns evolve and urbanisation intensifies, the role of LPAs in applying flood risk standing advice has grown increasingly significant. This advice assists in making well-informed planning decisions that prioritise community safety and infrastructure resilience.
The essence of this guidance is the collaboration between LPAs and the Environment Agency, a partnership that is indispensable for determining the appropriate flood risk assessments (FRAs) for various developments. The standing advice advocates for FRAs to be customised to the specific scale, nature, and location of each project, ensuring that mitigation measures are proportionate to the flood risk involved.
A notable component of the standing advice is the definition of minor extensions, such as householder or non-domestic extensions with a floor space not exceeding 250 square metres. When preparing an FRA, it is imperative to include comprehensive details such as the site address, a description of the development, estimated flood levels, flood resistance plans, and any supporting information. These elements form the backbone of a thorough assessment. Flood levels should be estimated based on a 1 in 100 annual probability for river floods and a 1 in 200 annual probability for tidal floods. To mitigate risks, the guidance recommends setting floor levels at least 600mm above the estimated flood level and using flood-resistant materials. In cases where there is high certainty, the floor level can be reduced to 300mm, provided additional flood resistance and resilience measures are incorporated.
Building design is also highlighted as a critical factor in managing flood risk. The design should aim to exclude floodwater and facilitate swift recovery if water ingress occurs. Developments situated below the estimated flood level must have robust access and escape plans to ensure the safety of inhabitants during flood events. For major developments, particularly those involving surface water drainage, a sustainable drainage strategy (SuDS) is mandatory. This strategy must address water quantity, quality, biodiversity, and amenity considerations. Planning applicants are required to align their SuDS plans with local authority requirements and planning practice guidance to ensure effective surface water management.
Proximity to rivers, flood defences, or watercourses often necessitates separate permits or consents to comply with regulations. For instance, surfacing more than 5 square metres of a front garden with non-porous material requires permission to prevent potential drainage issues that could exacerbate flooding risks. A completed FRA must accompany the planning application submitted to the LPA. This step ensures that all developments adhere to local authority requirements and planning practice guidance for surface water management. A sequential test, which compares proposed development sites with the lowest flood risk, is mandatory for both major and non-major developments in flood zones and vulnerable areas. Highly vulnerable developments in specific flood zones must undergo an exception test to evaluate the feasibility and safety of the proposed project. Conversely, certain developments, such as minor extensions, may be exempt from the sequential test based on predefined criteria.
Early engagement with the LPA to discuss the sequential test and appropriate search areas is advisable. This proactive approach streamlines the planning process and ensures compliance with flood risk management guidelines. The structural integrity of buildings can be compromised by floodwater pressure, underscoring the importance of incorporating additional flood resistance and resilience measures where necessary. In flood zones 1 and 2, thorough FRAs are essential for effectively identifying and addressing potential flood risks. Future assessments should also consider increased risks from rivers or the sea, utilising the LPA’s strategic flood risk assessment as a key reference for decision-making.
Local flood risk standing advice is particularly crucial for developments in areas with critical drainage issues, such as Devon and Cornwall. Adhering to this advice and consulting with the Environment Agency ensures that developments falling outside the standard scope are adequately assessed for flood risk. As the significance of flood risk assessments in urban development continues to rise, integrating best practices into planning processes is vital for safeguarding communities and infrastructure against flooding impacts. By diligently following standing advice and regulatory guidelines, stakeholders can proactively address flood risks and promote resilient, sustainable development in flood-prone areas.
LPAs must remain vigilant and adaptive, continuously updating and refining their flood risk management strategies. This includes staying informed about the latest research, technologies, and methodologies in flood risk assessment and mitigation. By fostering a collaborative environment with developers, engineers, and environmental experts, LPAs can ensure that urban development projects are not only compliant with regulations but also resilient against future flood events. Furthermore, public awareness and community engagement play a crucial role in effective flood risk management. Educating residents and businesses about flood risks, preparedness measures, and the importance of sustainable development practices can enhance community resilience. LPAs should facilitate workshops, seminars, and informational campaigns to keep the public informed and involved in flood risk management efforts.
In essence, LPAs are at the forefront of managing urban flood risks through informed planning, robust assessments, and proactive collaboration. By adhering to comprehensive flood risk standing advice and fostering a culture of resilience and sustainability, LPAs can protect communities, infrastructure, and the environment from the adverse effects of flooding. This holistic approach ensures that urban development not only meets current needs but also safeguards future generations against the escalating threat of floods.
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