Whilst it is important to manage existing flood risk, it is vital that we do not add to the overall risk by failing to deal with issues arising from new developments. We are working with relevant partners to ensure the best solutions are implemented by developing a greater understanding of the needs across the county and providing guidance to developers. This page provides links to resources on planning, development, flood risk and related planning requirements.
Planning Authorities
The planning system regulates the way in which land is used by:
- Producing Strategic Plans
- Producing Local Plans which set out the type and location of developments that will be permitted in an area
- Operating a Development Management System to process planning applications, and to ensure that proposed developments meet the requirements of the local and strategic plans
More information relating to Planning Authorities and their responsibilities can be found under the Planning Service and Development Management web pages.
Planning Policy
Planning policy ensures that inappropriate new developments are prevented in flood risk areas and any proposed development is directed away from areas that are at higher risk. Further information on planning and flood risk can be found on the Environment Agency’s website.
For more information about sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) and development, see our Sustainable Drainage webpage.