Strategic flood risk assessment (SFRA) is a tool which assesses the risk of flooding from all possible sources, for example, rivers, sewers, groundwater, canals etc. and the impact of climate change on flood risk.
It forms the basis for preparing appropriate policies for flood risk management and assists in identifying suitable locations for minerals and waste developments.
Why is a strategic flood risk assessment necessary?
Carrying out a strategic flood risk assessment is critical to the development of planning policy. It is a legal requirement in the production and preparation of local authority planning policy documents, for example plans within the minerals and waste development framework.
Strategic flood risk assessment is carried out in line with English law and guidance.
The aim of the strategic flood risk assessment is to assess proposed plans whose implementation may have a significant impact on flooding and flood risk. It aims to prevent unsuitable development in areas at risk of flooding, and to direct development away from areas at highest risk.
Opportunities to become involved in the strategic flood risk assessment process
Level 1 Strategic flood risk assessment and the 'sequential test’
A level 1 strategic flood risk assessment reports on the findings of the 'sequential test', a sieving process, which seeks to direct development away from areas more likely to flood.
Level 2 Strategic flood risk assessment and the 'exception test’
A level 2 strategic flood risk assessment reports on the findings of the 'exception test'. This second test is undertaken for locations where the sequential test alone cannot deliver acceptable locations, and where development is necessary for social or economic reasons.
Opportunity for involvement
A strategic flood risk assessment should be carried out in liaison with the Environment Agency and should seek the views of the public to identify additional flood risk problems that may need to be addressed.
A living document
It is imperative that the strategic flood risk assessment is adopted as a 'living' document and is reviewed and updated regularly in light of emerging policy directives and an improving understanding of flood risk within the plan area.
Links with sustainability appraisals
Strategic flood risk assessment informs sustainability appraisals in relation to flood risk.