Flood Risk Assessments
National Planning Policy Framework
We have the capability to produce site specific Flood Risk Assessments (FRA's) as defined in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and the associated Planning Practice Guidance website. In producing an FRA we aim to produce a document which is cost effective by being proportionate to the degree of flood risk and which makes the best use of existing information. At the same time the document needs to be reliable and robust.
Important part of the planning process
FRA's are an important element of the planning process in England and are compulsory for all new developments larger than 1ha and for developments situated in flood zones 2 and 3. These zones cover areas likely to flood more frequently that once in 1,000 years. FRA's examine if a proposed development itself will be affected by flooding and also if the development will cause or increase flooding elsewhere. FRA's are only applicable in England, the corresponding document in Wales is the Flood Consequence Assessment.
More Detailed Studies
The work required for an FRA depends on the particular site and on the information available from the Environment Agency. In some cases, to meet the requirements of the NPPF, it may be necessary to use FEH methods to assess the flood flows in watercourses and then to undertake a computer river modelling study to assess the extent of the flooding itself.
Further details
Areas covered - We are happy to undertake FRA's within about 60 miles of our office in Cardiff. This then includes Bristol, Bath, Swindon, Gloucester and Cheltenham and surrounding areas.
Scope of Report - As part of the FRA we would normally consult with the Environment Agency and the drainage section of the council. Unfortunately this can be a protracted process and is likely to set the timescale for the whole FRA. We feel that this is important since it allows the FRA to address any objections before planning permission is applied for. This may save you time and expense later.
The quotation will give our best estimate of the scope of an FRA to cover your needs. During the course of a study, occasionally, new information may indicate that additional work is called for. In this case we will discuss this with you before incurring extra costs.
Deliverables - We will send a PDF copy of the completed report via e-mail. We do not normally supply a paper copy of the report.
Copyright - The report will be protected by copyright but we give you permission to produce an unlimited number of copies.
Payment - Our quotation will set out the payment terms and we accept payment by cheque or direct transfer via Internet banking.
Quotation - Please contact us for a free no obligations quotation for a Flood Risk Assessment (FRA) tailored to your specific site and needs. This will give the cost, an estimate of how long it would take and detail the scope of the report.
Photograph: Flooding of the River Avon at Fleet Lane, near Bredon, Worcestershire.
