Understanding opportunities, challenges and barriers with a focus on the post-consent planning process
This research takes a detailed look at the effectiveness of the planning system for the delivery of flood resilient new housing development in England. The research has been conducted through a literature review, two in depth case studies, stakeholder interviews and a review of the use of conditions in two local planning authorities. The research has been guided by an advisory group of flood risk and development experts.
The findings of the research remind us of the systemic issues around the operation of the planning system in England, which fails to adequately prioritise or secure long-term resilience to the impacts of climate change. Within this system, the research looked in detail at the operation of the development management process in relation to securing flood resilience measures in new development and found areas of dysfunction and vulnerability, and revealed detailed procedural issues that are pertinent to how new development is being monitored and built out.
The research scope highlights that securing flood resilient developments in contingent on both effective operation at a systemic level and the execution of detailed procedures. Both the system and the details are fundamental components of planning for flood risk management, and building safe and resilient communities is dependent on their successful operation.
The TCPA is grateful for the generous support of Flood Re for commissioning this research.
