What you need to know about the flood risk sequential test
In this episode of The Building Sustainably Podcast, Chris Patmore and Jonathan Morley, Technical Directors at RPS, join Emily McGee to unpack the sequential testing in flood risk assessment. They discuss the evolution of sequential testing from the Flood and Water Management Act, its legal implications, and practical applications in flood risk management. Chris and Jonathan also share real-world case studies that highlight the importance of collaboration among engineers, planners, and local authorities.
07 November 2024 | 1 min read
Episode overview
In this episode of The Building Sustainably Podcast, Chris Patmore and Jonathan Morley, Technical Directors at RPS, join Emily McGee to discuss the evolution and practical applications of sequential testing in flood risk assessment.
Chris and Jonathan talk through the legal implications and real-world case studies that highlight the importance of collaboration among engineers, planners, and local authorities in managing flood risks.
Chris, with over 30 years of experience, specialises in flood risk and sustainable drainage design for major infrastructure projects. His expertise spans residential development, rail, highways, petrochemical, and energy installations, where he has performed NPPF sequential test analysis in collaboration with project planners.
Jonathan, an experienced project manager and hydrology expert, has authored numerous Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), Flood Risk Assessments (FRAs), and Surface Water Management Plans. His work adheres to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Planning Practice Guidance (PPG), and SuDS guidance for various commercial, industrial, residential, and energy developments across the UK.
Together, Chris and Jonathan share valuable insights and case studies that highlight the evolving approaches to flood risk management, emphasizing the importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration in creating sustainable and resilient communities.
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One of the challenges over the years has been the ambiguity within the legislation and the guidance. So, historically, there was a focus on the zones, which would be river flooding and tidal flooding. However, that has, in a couple years, been applied to all areas of flooding, which was then strengthened within the NPPF. But, as there was some lingering ambiguity, that has led to legal challenges and being progressive to courts, which have sought to deal with some of that ambiguity, but in some areas haven't quite cleared it up.
Jonathan Morley
Technical Director - Hydrology
Key highlights
01:25 - 4:26 - Understanding the Sequential Test - The sequential test is a critical tool developed from the Flood and Water Management Act, aimed at steering development away from flood-prone areas. Originally focused on flood zones, it now encompasses all types of flood risks, including surface water, groundwater, and sewer flooding. With recent updates to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) in 2023, the test has gained attention due to ongoing confusion and legal challenges regarding its application.
06:43 - 11:16 - The Key to Successful Development Planning - Overcoming the complexities of development planning starts with fostering collaboration among all stakeholders from the outset. Engage flood risk engineers, planners, clients, and local authorities to ensure everyone is aligned on assessing the right areas and factors, including ecological considerations and local plans. Proactively conducting a thorough sequential test can save you from costly legal challenges later and streamline the development process, as not all sites may initially require this test.
15:55 - 19:22 - Mastering the Sequential Test for Successful Site Development - To successfully navigate the sequential test in site development, prioritise collaboration across all disciplines involved, ensuring everyone agrees on the project's definition and the search area. Begin your assessment with a list of potential sites, narrowing it down through rigorous evaluation of factors like uniqueness and flood risk. More importantly, stay proactive and integrate the sequential test into your due diligence process early to avoid costly surprises later
Transcript
Watch and learn: Sequential Test Essentials webinar
This webinar covers:
- What is the Sequential Test
- Policy Update
- What does it mean in practice?
- Possible solutions
- Best approach - Key takeaways
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Key contacts
