The ability to manage flooding and drainage issues have for long ranked very highly in public and water sector concern – a concern intensified by the flood events of 2007 in several major urban areas of England and the subsequent publication of the Pitt Review.
Given the projected increased frequency of more intense storms as a consequence of climate change, the UK needs to learn to adapt as well as minimise the consequences of flooding when it does occur.
Where does WRc come in?
WRc has investigated the performance and institutional arrangements for sewerage and drainage systems, working both for the environmantal regulators and for the sewerage companies, for a great many years.
In terms of adapting to our changing climate, WRc is involved with others to develop a better understanding of the performance of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) and their uptake within an overall surface water management framework. This includes assisting other bodies in:
- determining the impact and practical implementation of PPS25 which sets out Government Policy on Development and Flood Risk, and
- conducting the new assessments for flood risk management as required by the Flood and Water Management Act 2010.
Our policy and legislation team continues to provide invaluable support to the industry, working with partner organisations to develop the National Sustainable Drainage Standards and assisting the Environment Agency in developing their national strategy for managing flood and coastal erosion risks.
As an independent research and consultancy body, WRc also offers impartial expert witness and advice services from experienced drainage engineers who are able to investigate the causes of flooding incidents to those affected by urban drainage issues.