Published: 18 February 2008
Consultation on Flood Risk Management
Proposals to better protect homes and communities from the threat of flooding have been published for consultation by the Scottish government.
The discussion document on the future of flood risk management in Scotland outlines plans to update legislation, to help make the process for protecting at-risk areas quicker & simpler.
The proposals which will shape the new Flooding Bill are designed to:
· Introduce a more sustainable and modern approach to flood risk management
· Create a more joined up and streamlined process to avoid duplication
· Simplify and speed up the development and implementation of flood defences
Launching the consultation at a flood prevention scheme in Galston, East Ayshire, Minister for Environment Michael Russell said:
"The proposals will help deliver flood risk management for the 21st century, to better protect vulnerable communities from the increased risk of flooding.
Climate change has seen flooding become an increasingly regular threat to communities around Scotland, and the outdated 1960s legislation we have at present is no longer fit to tackle this growing danger.
The destruction flooding can cause is traumatic in terms of loss of property and devastating for those homes and businesses directly affected.
By streamlining the flood risk management process, we aim to ensure that a modern and sustainable approach is in place across Scotland. This will help to simplify and speed up flood protection measures.
This consultation is an opportunity for everyone to contribute on the way forward for flood risk management in Scotland. I am looking for views from members of the public, industry experts and local authorities to help inform the future Flooding Bill."
Galston was affected by major floods in 1999 and a flood prevention scheme was confirmed in 2006 by the previous administration to protect 160 homes and businesses at risk from flooding from the River Irvine and Burn Anne.
Construction of defence walls, embankments and storage basins commenced in March 2007 and was planned for completion in September 2007. However, delays have caused the contract to over-run with completion now expected in Spring 2008.
The consultation on proposals for the Flooding Bill will close on 23 April 2008 and the Government plans to introduce a draft Bill to the Scottish Parliament later this year.
The framework for the Flooding Bill is the EC Floods Directive, which was formally adopted by the European Council on 18 September 2007.
The Scottish Government must transpose the Directive into Scots law by November 2009. The purpose of the Directive is to establish a framework for the assessment & management of flood risks.
It requires action by Member States in three main areas:
· Production of preliminary flood risk assessment
· Production of flood hazard maps and flood risk maps
· Production of flood risk management plans
The consultation also includes proposals to reform the Reservoirs Act 1975.
Further information
The Future of Flood Risk Management in Scotland: A Consultation Document
Flooding Prevention Bill
EC Floods Directive
ScotGov flooding
Reservoirs Act 1975
Related article: Climate Change Forecasting in Scotland
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