Flood Map for Planning Update: What It Means for Developers and Planners

The latest Flood Map for Planning update has introduced significant changes to flood risk classifications across England. With the integration of NAFRA2 (National Flood Risk Assessment) and climate change projections, developers, planners, and property owners must reassess how flood risk impacts planning applications, site feasibility, and flood resilience strategies.

What Has Changed?

The updated Flood Map for Planning, released by the Environment Agency, includes the latest flood modelling data. Key changes include:

• NAFRA2 Integration – The new dataset provides a more detailed and probabilistic approach to flood risk assessment, meaning some areas may now fall into higher-risk flood zones.

• Climate Change Considerations – UK Climate Projections (UKCP18) have been factored into the map, offering a forward-looking view of how flood risk may evolve.

• Refined Flood Zone Classifications – With more accurate modelling, planning requirements may now differ for certain locations.

• Surface Water Flooding Visibility – Improved data presentation includes better identification of areas at risk from surface water flooding.

Implications for Planning and Development

For developers and planners, the latest updates could impact project feasibility and planning permissions in several ways:

1. Planning Applications and Site Feasibility

If a site has been reclassified into a higher flood risk zone, planning applications may now require additional flood mitigation measures. Sequential and Exception Tests could become mandatory for some developments, increasing the need for early flood risk assessments.

2. Increased Flood Mitigation Requirements

With flood risk now being assessed more comprehensively, planners must incorporate Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) and property-level flood resilience into their designs. Flood risk assessments will play a critical role in securing planning approval.

3. Potential Impact on Property Insurance

Higher flood risk classifications could lead to changes in insurance policies and premiums. Developers should be aware of these potential costs and consider resilience measures to mitigate long-term financial risks.

4. Implications for Welsh Planning (TAN15 Update)

While this update affects England, Wales is also set to introduce revisions to Technical Advice Note 15 (TAN15), which will strengthen planning policies around flood risk. Developers working across both regions must navigate differing requirements.

How to Adapt to These Changes

To ensure compliance and minimise delays, developers and planners should take the following steps:

• Review Site Allocations – Check if flood zone changes affect your project viability.

• Engage with Flood Risk Consultants Early – A detailed flood risk assessment will be essential for securing approvals and implementing mitigation measures.

• Implement Robust Drainage Strategies – SuDS and flood resilience measures will be key to sustainable development under these new classifications.

• Stay Updated on Policy Changes – Keep an eye on evolving flood risk policies, especially with the upcoming changes to TAN15 in Wales.

How JMS Civils Can Help

At JMS Civils, we specialise in flood risk assessments, property flood resilience, drainage design, and SuDS reports. Our expertise ensures that developers and planners stay ahead of regulatory changes, making informed decisions that support sustainable and compliant developments.

If you need expert guidance on how the new Flood Map for Planning impacts your site, get in touch today.

Get in touch today to learn how JMS Civils can support your next civil engineering project.

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