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Kent 4 star Council

What do developers need to consider with regard to flooding?

The district council's building control section must be notified of any new works or alterations to domestic drainage.

Such works are usually subject to building regulations approval procedures.

The building control section of your local or district council will also be able to offer practical advice.

Developments affecting highways

Any work that involves excavation in the highway will require a road-opening notice from Kent Highway Services and the district council can help with this.

Developments affecting sewers

Any proposals that could affect the public sewer system must be discussed with, and approved by, the regional water company.

These could include a new or re-aligned connection to the public sewer, works requiring the diversion of a public sewer, or the construction of new sewers with a view to adoption by the water company.

Developments which may increase surface water run-off

The Environment Agency must be consulted where proposed works are likely to increase surface water run-off or affect the land drainage of the area.

District councils also require developers to demonstrate how they plan to deal with surface water run-off generated by new developments.

As a general rule, run-off from a new development must not exceed the run-off expected if the land-use was undeveloped.

Such requirements are normally a condition of obtaining planning approval.

Developments on a coastal flood plain

Any proposed development in a coastal flood plain will require developers to provide the following information:

  • The existing ground level of the site (to ordnance datum)
  • Proposed floor levels (to ordnance datum)
  • A flood risk assessment

Obtaining permission for developments

Permission for new developments will be considered based on advice from the Environment Agency and district council engineers.

Planners will recommend to the relevant planning committee whether or not the development should be rejected on the basis of flood risks.

Any development within or near areas that are subject to erosion, or land at the top of cliffs, may be subject to site-specific restrictions.

Developers should therefore discuss their proposals with the district council's planning department at an early stage.

Copyright Kent County Council 2009