Potamos Consulting

What does an FRA Involve?

The scope of a Flood Risk Assessment depends on:

1. The requirements of the planning policy under which it is carried out;
2. The level of flood risk at the site; and
3. The scale, nature and location of the proposed development.

Zone 1 Flood Risk Assessment

A Flood Risk Assessment for a site in Flood Zone 1 would typically include a brief assessment of the risk of flooding from all sources but would essentially be a Drainage Assessment focusing on the likely impacts of the proposed development on surface water runoff and how this can best be managed to avoid increasing the risk of flooding both on and off-site.

Zone 2 and 3 Flood Risk Assessment

A Flood Risk Assessment for a site in Flood Zones 2 or 3 would typically comprise:

• A Level 1 Flood Risk Assessment (Screening Study) - To undertake consultation with the relevant regulators, confirm the flood zone(s) that apply to the site, obtain up-to-date flood risk information and determine the feasibility of the proposed development.
  
  
• The Sequential Test - To determine whether the site is the most suitable location for the proposed development.
  
  
• The Exception Test (if required) - To justify the suitability of the proposed development site for its planned purpose given the flood risk to which it is exposed.
  
  
• A Level 2 Flood Risk Assessment (Scoping Study) - To collect any qualitative information outstanding from Level 1 and begin a qualitative assessment of the risk of flooding from all sources.
  
  
• A Level 3 Flood Risk Assessment (Detailed Study) - To provide a detailed and robust assessment of the risks on sites with significant flood risk issues or where limited data is currently available. Such an assessment may include quantitative assessment in the form of hydrological assessment, hydraulic modelling and level-for-level floodplain compensation calculations.
  
  
• A Drainage Assessment - To assess the likely impacts of the proposed development on surface and foul water runoff from the site and ensure that adequate plans are in place for sustainable management of this runoff.
  
  

Please contact us for a more specific discussion regarding what an FRA for your proposed development site may involve. Further information can also be found in the relevant planning policy and supporting guidance documents for your region shown on the left: