The Planning System and Flood Risk Management - Offaly County ...

Assessment of the application5.12 Assessment of the application should be based principally on the policies anddetailed objectives of the development plan, with flood risk considered alongwith the full range of planning considerations for the application. In assessingdevelopment proposals in areas at risk of flooding, planning authorities shouldadopt a risk-based sequential approach as outlined in Chapter 3 which givespriority to development in areas of lowest risk. Overall, a balanced approachis required which takes account of flood risk while at the same time allowingconsideration of appropriate and necessary development. This is achievedthrough the use of the sequential approach based on flood zones and the twopartJustification Test;• firstly, on the grounds of proper planning and sustainable development,and• secondly, to ensure that flood risk to the development will be minimisedas far as reasonably possible with residual risks managed to an acceptablelevel of risk, while avoiding adverse impacts elsewhere.5.13 Development should not be permitted in flood risk areas except where thereare no alternative and appropriate sites available in areas at lower risk thatare consistent with the objectives of proper planning and sustainabledevelopment. Where such development has to take place, the risks shouldbe mitigated and managed through the location, lay-out and design of thedevelopment to reduce them to an acceptable level. For example, the use ofsustainable drainage systems can greatly reduce the frequency and impact oflocal flooding as well as improving water quality and providing amenitybenefits. Flood-resistant and flood-resilient construction methods can reducethe impact of flooding when it does occur. More information on flood riskmanagement by design is available in Appendix B. A precautionary approachshould be taken to allow for uncertainties in data and risk assessment proceduresand to enable adaptability to future changes in risk, including the effects ofclimate change.5.14 Where new development in flood risk areas is proposed details of the floodrisk, mitigation measures and residual risk should be supplied to the majoremergency management committee (MEMC) of the relevant local authorityfor inclusion in their major emergency risk assessment.5.15 Where the development plan has not been reviewed in the light of theseguidelines, the planning authority should include in its consideration whetherexisting policies and objectives remain appropriate for developments proposedwithin areas at risk of flooding. Other important considerations include:• other relevant planning policy on flooding at the local, national orregional level;39Planning Guidelines