Always on hand to provide guidance on issues as they arose, their sensitive approach and steadfast commitment allowed us to unlock the development potential.
Acorn Property Group
Development Manager
SERVICES
Flood Risk & Hydrology
Analysis at every stage
Our detailed understanding of hydrological process and modelling techniques means we can provide accurate, honest advice at any stage in the planning process.
Assessing Risk
With instant access to the latest datasets and an in-depth understanding of how they are derived, we provide a refined appraisal of flood risk, whether it’s from rivers, the sea, coastal, surface water or groundwater.
Where necessary, we can challenge existing information and carry out site-specific appraisals ranging from common sense arguments, drawing on recorded flood events, to detailed hydraulic modelling.
Mitigating Risk
Where it’s not possible to avoid risk entirely, we distinguish between theoretical risk, the risk taking account of defences and residual risk; in order to derive appropriate strategies for managing these risks through site and building design.
Surface water drainage
As part of our flood risk service we derive compliant surface water drainage strategies that seek to enhance developments.
Navigating the planning process
The requirements of approving bodies are becoming increasingly stringent. Our rigorous analysis and thorough understanding of the planning regime help minimise project risks and maximise development. We have extensive experience of working on complex sites with demanding consultees – and never shy away from a challenge.
Collaborating for the right solution
We work by collaborating with other technical experts, such as external planners, masterplanners and landscape architects. Together we’re able to identify solutions that can be integrated seamlessly within site masterplans in the most cost-effective and sustainable ways, that also minimise construction and maintenance costs. We work seamlessly with colleagues in our Infrastructure team so that they’re ready to make your plans a reality.
Getting closer to the go ahead
We regularly provide Flood Risk Assessments and Flood Consequence Assessments (for Wales) in combination with outline or detailed drainage strategies. These comply with the requirements of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and Technical Advice Note 15, in support of planning applications for a range of developments across the UK.
Our understanding of the nuances of the flood risk and drainage policy allows us to foresee issues and tailor our approach to each application, including early engagement with statutory bodies.
Expert input and assessment
Talk to Patrick, Head of Flood Risk & Hydrology
Our sector experience
We use our experience, insight and analytical approaches to respond to the exact needs of our clients; and identify and solve problems by targeting solutions that take in the bigger picture.
Residential
We’re often involved early in projects, supporting site-finding activities, and moving on to the masterplan process. Schemes range from a few dwellings with simple access and layout considerations, through to large, mixed use schemes requiring modelling of the wider network and strategic infrastructure improvements.
Renewables
We support development for wind, solar and energy-from-waste projects throughout the UK. This includes large scale wind farms to expansive solar schemes in areas of risk of flooding. As a corporate IEMA partner, we understand the specific legal requirements of environmental impact assessment.
Commercial & Industrial
Whether it’s transport planning or highway design, flood risk or drainage strategies, we understand the nuances of industrial and commercial development. We can take a lead role in optimising the masterplan process, support planning with robust evidence, and provide accurate, cost-effective construction designs.
Retail
We’re a trusted partner for a number of regional and national developers, bringing extensive knowledge of commercial development. We enable a scheme to be commercially optimised, understanding the importance of maximising passing trade; while also minimising the severity of associated traffic effects.
Health & Wellbeing
Our team of experts has extensive experience of advising on all types of health and wellbeing facilities. We provide transport planning, highway, flood risk and drainage input across a range of developments, including primary and secondary schools, GP surgeries, pharmacies and dental practices.
Leisure
Every leisure development is different – whether it’s a new campsite, gym or stadium. The journey through the planning system is just the start. We ensure that fundamental engineering principles are ingrained in our solutions, to expedite the design and approval stages, and get contractors on site sooner.
