Flood Risk Appraisals for future developments in Wales
To support future developments across Wales, this collection of projects saw us provide flood risk support to the Welsh Government and several local authorities. This included advising on the implications of Technical Advice Note (TAN) 15 (2004), as well as the potential impact of the forthcoming policy update.
With our vast experience of flood risk management in Wales, we were appointed by three different clients as part of this series of projects. This saw us provide flood risk guidance for future developments in Swansea, Anglesey and Llanelli.
- Clients Carmarthenshire County Council, Isle of Anglesey County Council, Welsh Government
- Locations Swansea, Anglesey, Llanelli
Detailed flood risk guidance underpinned by our understanding of the implications of the new TAN 15
To provide detailed flood risk support for each of the proposed development sites, we prepared individual Flood Risk Technical Appraisals. These appraisals identified the risk of flooding from all sources and potential mitigation measures to ensure sustainable development. In some instances, this supported candidate site submission for forthcoming revised Local Development Plans.
Key to this work was determining the viability of site development proposals against the existing and forthcoming TAN 15 (TAN 15: Development, Flood Risk and Coastal Erosion). With unknown timeframes for the implementation of the updated TAN 15 also creating uncertainty for developers and local authorities, we also provided advice on the potential implications of the policy change on development plans.
By utilising the January 2023 consultation draft of TAN 15, we were able to assess the Flood Risk Appraisals for each site against all sources of flood risk and the draft guidance available. As a result, we were able to determine the potential for development, the most sustainable forms of development and recommendations for flood mitigation, if applicable.
Through our extensive knowledge and experience of flood risk management in Wales, we were able to use this information to deliver many client benefits. Alongside a greater understanding of the potential impacts of TAN 15, we also supported our clients to better understand the risk of flooding on their site, the limitations of development and the potential for flood risk mitigation.
Looking forward to the implementation of TAN 15
Having completed these projects, we are well-placed to assist clients with the implementation of the new TAN 15. Ahead of its release, we gained a thorough understanding of the TAN 15 consultation draft and worked with numerous clients to increase their understanding of planning policy changes and the implications for development in both the public and private sectors.
Following the release of the new TAN 15, we look forward to reviewing the changes to the consultation draft and the certainty in planning policy that this will bring.
