The Flood Risk Management (Scotland) Act 2009 was enacted on June 16, 2009.
The Flood Risk Management (Scotland) Bill was passed by Parliament on May 13, 2009 and received Royal Assent on June 16, 2009.
The Act will be commenced in stages over the coming year and, until Section 70 which repeals the Flood Prevention (Scotland) Act 1961 has been commenced, current flooding legislation will remain in place. This phased commencement will allow for a smooth transition to the new legislation.
The Act will introduce a more sustainable and modern approach to flood risk management, suited to the needs of the 21st century and to the impact of climate change.
It will also create a more joined up and coordinated process to manage flood risk at a national and local level.
Specific measures within the Flood Risk Management (Scotland) Act 2009 include:
- A framework for coordination and cooperation between all organisations involved in flood risk management
- Assessment of flood risk and preparation of flood risk management plans
- New responsibilities for SEPA, Scottish Water and local authorities in relation to flood risk management
- A revised, streamlined process for flood protection schemes
- New methods to enable stakeholders and the public to contribute to managing flood risk, and;
- A single enforcement authority for the safe operation of Scotland's reservoirs.
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