What is this standard about?
It provides simple, straightforward, practical assistance for understanding and dealing with the flood risk of a proposed new development.
As such it supports government policy to build more homes and at the same time improve the management and communication of flood risk – particularly since the severe weather events which cause flooding are increasing.
Who is this standard for?
- Developers
- Designers
- Planning authorities
- Water companies
- Land drainage authorities
- Internal drainage boards
- Environment Agencies and other regulatory bodies
- The insurance industry
Why should you use this standard?
This standard gives recommendations and guidance on the appropriate assessment and management of flood risk in developments, including:
- Assessing the risk of flooding to the development site and beyond
- Assessing the probability of flooding to the development site
- Assessing the risks of flooding as a result of the development
It also gives guidance in relation to climate change and flooding as well as management of the risk of flooding. In addition, it includes guidance on safe access and egress.
Finally, flood risk assessments (FRAs) are required to support major developments and to assist the planning authorities in giving planning consent. Appropriate and up-to-date guidance is essential, especially following the introduction of new planning legislation in England and Wales. This standard provides valuable information which promotes the production of good quality FRAs.
What’s changed since the last update?
This is a revision of the standard published in 2014. It reflects new planning legislation in England and Wales, and other such changes that have taken place in the devolved administrations.
It also includes a new section on “access and egress”, which had previously been flagged up for a new standard, but which would sit better within the existing guidance.