JMS are experienced in the preparation and submission of Flood Risk Assessments in accordance with the current requirements of Planning Policy Statement (PPS) 25. Flood Risk Assessments are generally required for all sites irrespective of whether they are located within Zones 1, 2 or 3 and if in higher risk areas, will automatically attract an Objection from the Environment Agency without one. Even if the development is removed from the floodplain, there may be a requirement to demonstrate that it will not cause a downstream flood impact as a result of its construction.

Detailed modelling of surface water run-off is used to assess any flood risk and also to design the most economic mitigation.

JMS utilise close contact with the Environment Agency to ensure the scope of the Flood Risk Assessment is tailored to the specific site requirements, and the resulting assessments are discussed with the EA to achieve removal of objection wherever possible. JMS are aware that the objective of an assessment is not always to generate a particularly large or extensive document, but to address the Environment Agency’s concerns with the site.