


Environment agency guidance on the requirements for undertaking a Flood Risk Assessment (FRA) for planning applications can be of great help if you are looking to develop a plan to counter floods. This guidance note relates particularly to the commissioning and undertaking of flood risk assessment studies for developments in the Flood Zones 2 and 3, other than minor householder extensions and non-domestic extensions with a footprint of less than 250 square meters. this is covered individually in FRA guidance note 2.
Do you know the reason why FRA is a must in zones 2 and 3?
The proposed development area could be at risk of flooding from either rivers or seas when situated in Flood Zone 3 and 2. In these circumstances , FRA needs to concentrate on mitigation measures like setting appropriate floor levels and where necessary accommodating flood proofing in the design of the building, additionally including an assessment of residual risks on and off site. In developments that are close to the water sources which are classified as Main River or are close to flood defence structures, there are chances that the operation and maintenance can be affected due to floods. FRA in these cases will be helpful to determine the impacts and indicate whether therisks are suitable and acceptable or not.
The Flood risk from rivers and seas in zone 3 is said to be high and in the zone 2 is said to be low to medium. This is not an absolute accurate classification; it is too simplistic as it doesn’t take account of site and local specific circumstances And this is the reason why an FRA is necessary to ensure that all the features of the flood are taken into the account. This is important not only for the planned development but also the possible impact on the people and property elsewhere within the reach of the flood. The FRA will suggest the scope and scale, nature and location of the planned development.
The FRA is a must for developments in zones 2 and 3 as it will provide plans, indicate survey details, it provides risk assessment and carries out the exception test requirements. FRA can be minor in character where it evaluates small developments on sites where the flood risk can be easily quantifiable and minimal in nature.
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