New National Flood Risk Map for Planning
The Environment Agency has recently published its updated Flood Risk Map for Planning information, which will be fundamental for future planning applications. Technical Director, Emma Keegan highlights the key points below:
- The flood risk information has been updated using a new process which has been developed for the new National Flood risk Assessment (NaFRA2). This combines new and existing data.
- Local modelling data has been incorporated where available and appropriate to do so.
- Recorded Flood Outlines, from past floods, have been incorporated into the modelling.
- Defended and Undefended scenarios are provided.
- Geographical coverage has been improved.
- Outputs are at a higher resolution.
- Supporting information such as the possible effects of climate change is included.
- Flood Zones 2 and 3 no longer overlap.
- The user interface looks a bit different but is still simple to use!
One key takeaway – where changes occur that coincide with proposed development, it will be necessary to ensure that the best available information is used to inform planning decisions. What does that mean? It means using the new data in your current assessments and potentially updating any assessments that have recently been submitted to support a planning application that is awaiting determination.
Our Flood Risk Team can assist in updating your assessments and preparing any new ones – please contact Emma.
