Flood risk assessments (FRAs) are an important part of the planning process in England, and are required for all new development in areas at risk of flooding. The guidelines for FRAs are set out in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), as well as in a number of other guidance documents.
Some of the key guidelines for FRAs in England include:
- Identifying the risk of flooding: The FRA should identify the types and sources of flood risk, including river, coastal, and surface water flooding. The assessment should also take into account the probability and potential consequences of flooding.
- Assessing the impact of flooding: The FRA should consider the potential impact of flooding on the proposed development, as well as on existing buildings and infrastructure in the surrounding area. This may include assessing the risk of structural damage, loss of life, and disruption to services.
- Mitigating flood risk: The FRA should identify measures to mitigate the risk of flooding, such as flood defences, sustainable drainage systems (SuDS), and flood warning systems. The assessment should also consider the potential impact of the development on flood risk in the surrounding area, and identify measures to minimize any adverse effects.
- Providing a clear and concise report: The FRA report should provide a clear and concise summary of the assessment, including the findings and recommendations. The report should be presented in a format that is easy to understand for both technical and non-technical audiences.
Overall, the guidelines for FRAs in England emphasize the importance of taking a comprehensive and integrated approach to flood risk management, and ensuring that new development is designed and located in a way that minimizes the risk of flooding and its potential impacts.