A recent study by the Town and Country Planning Association (TCPA) has revealed progress in integrating flood mitigation measures into new build developments, but issues such as lack of transparency, inconsistent practices, and limited visibility of the measures in place are creating challenges for insurers.
The research, commissioned by Flood Re, was based on detailed case studies, stakeholder interviews, and a review of existing literature. Its focus was on evaluating how effectively the planning system is delivering flood-resilient housing in England.
Key findings from the report indicate that the data used to guide planning decisions related to flood risk is frequently outdated and difficult to access. Additionally, regulation is complicated by a web of institutional functions.
The post-consent phase of planning was also scrutinised, with the research highlighting that it often lacks transparency, has little oversight, and is difficult for local communities to engage with.
To address the issues, the TCPA is urging immediate reforms in three main areas: improving the quality of flood risk data used in planning decisions, reviewing the mechanisms that secure necessary flood protection measures in new developments, and strengthening the regulatory framework to ensure such protections are implemented.
It was highlighted that the ability of insurers to provide flood coverage for new builds hinges on their confidence in flood mitigation efforts.
Properties built after January 1, 2009, are not eligible for ceding to the Flood Re scheme for flood insurance, and by 2039, the entire insurance market is set to revert to risk-based pricing as Flood Re exits, making the need for effective flood resilience measures even more pressing.
“It is vital that new homes built in England are not at risk of flooding,” Flood Re communications and transition director Dermot Kehoe commented. “Householders want to feel secure in their home and be confident that it will be insurable and mortgageable now and into the future.
“It is also important for wider insurance availability that we do not increase the total amount of flood risk the market is required to insure.”
TCPA senior projects and policy manager Celia Davis echoed the concerns, pointing to the need for fundamental change.
“The planning system should play a vital role in delivering flood-resilient new development,” Davis said. “However, our research reveals that it is failing to deliver safe developments due to procedural issues, which are borne out within a malfunctional system. Fundamental change is needed to secure a regulatory regime that keeps communities safe from the increasing risk of flooding for the long term.”
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