This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Flood risk and planning
25/03/2003
Draft planning policy aimed at reducing flood risks was issued for consultation today.
Once agreed, Scottish Planning Policy (SPP) 7 will replace the existing policy which dates back to 1995.
Social Justice Minister Margaret Curran said:
"The recent spate of floods devastated communities across Scotland and many people are still recovering from the damage to their property and possessions.
"Too many homes are at risk of being flooded and climate change is predicted to worsen the situation. I want to ensure that further development is not put at significant risk from flooding and does not add to flooding problems elsewhere.
"I know that planning issues are often complex and very difficult decisions have to be made. That is why flooding problems should be identified as early as possible in the planning process and taken into account so that sufficient land is allocated for housing and other development.
"Fortunately, in the last few years, many organisations including planning authorities and developers have gained a lot of experience in minimising flood risk. I am issuing this consultation draft to tap that expertise before the policy is finalised, so that new development and the people who occupy it can be safeguarded from the devastating effects of flooding."
The draft SPP7 will be circulated widely to councils and agencies such as Scottish Water and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency. The consultation will end on 25 July 2003.
The consultative draft of SPP7 has been developed with the help of an advisory group that includes the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities, Homes for Scotland, The Royal Town Planning Institute, the Scottish Environment Protection Agency and Scottish Water.
The consultative draft of SPP7 identifies that proposed development with a 0.5 per cent (1:200) or greater probability of being flooded in any year should be considered as high risk for planning purposes and it will seek comments on this aspect.
A Planning Advice Note is also being prepared which will provide further information and best practice advice. It will deal with planning and building standards, which both have a role in safeguarding buildings against the effects of floods.