Local Planning Authorities in England and Wales play a crucial role in delivering sustainable development through the preparation of Local Plans. However, there are challenges to understanding flood risk. But what are these challenges and what support is available?
A clear understanding of flood risk is key to the preparation and delivery of Local Plans. The essential evidence needed to support these plans can be gained from Strategic Flood Risk Assessments (SFRAs) and Strategic Flood Consequence Assessments (SFCAs). However, changes to the National Planning Policy Framework and the Sequential Test in England, as well as uncertainties around the new TAN 15 in Wales, mean that Local Planning Authorities face several new challenges when preparing these plans.
Having supported almost 200 Local Planning Authorities across England and Wales to develop Local Plans, we understand robust SFRAs and SFCAs are key to addressing these issues. As well as providing clarity on the way flood risk opportunities and considerations are understood, it's important these assessments also help to inform sustainable decision-making and support resilient community growth. This requires a long-term approach to support the development of Local Plans from inception through to examination and beyond.
Supporting you to better understand flood risk
To aid the development of Local Plans, we offer a ‘one-stop shop’ for all your needs in understanding flood risk. Our services include:
- Level 1 and Level 2 Strategic Flood Risk Assessments (England)
- Stage 1, 2 and 3 Strategic Flood Consequence Assessments (Wales)
- Advice on how the Local Planning Authorities or developers should use flood risk data to apply the Sequential Test
- Flood modelling (for example for climate change or demonstrating the Exception Test)
- Support at Examination in Public
- Water Cycle Studies
We also provide a complementary SFRA Aftercare service to provide updates on key policy changes and guidance following the publication of your SFRA.
For more information about how we can support you in developing a Strategic Flood Risk Assessment, please contact Jo Chillingworth or Ed Hartwell.
Services
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