Planning for flood risk in all stages of new developments is to come under greater scrutiny.
The Department for Communities and Local Government’s Planning Policy Statement 25 (PPS 25) aims to ensure flood risk is taken into account at all stages in the planning process.
It advises against inappropriate development in areas at risk of flooding and directs development away from areas at highest risk.
Local authorities, the Environment Agency and developers are encouraged to work together to help reduce the risk from climate change to communities in the future through flooding.
The planning policy is published alongside a flooding Direction, which provides scope for greater scrutiny for major developments in flood risk areas.
Minister for Planning in the House of Lords, Baroness Andrews said: “With around 10% of English land area, housing stock and population already in flood risk areas, it is even more important that we develop a realistic strategy to make sure future development only takes place on suitable sites.
“PPS25 provides a comprehensive package of planning policy that will ensure sustainable development that adapts to the effects of climate change and help deliver the right type of homes in the right community for everyone.”
References: EGi News 07/12/06
