Flood Risk & Ecology
Flood Risk
The proposed site is identified as lying outside of the fluvial and tidal flood risk zone, according to the Environment Agency’s (EA) published flood map for planning.
The EA information indicates that the level of flood risk to the site corresponds to a Flood Zone 1 – low probability of flooding. This flood zone has less than a 1 in 1000-year annual probability of flooding.
The National Planning Policy Framework Planning Practice Guidance states that all types of development are suitable for this flood zone.
Within the site, an area of low – high risk of surface water flooding has been identified predominantly along the eastern boundary of the site. However, following further investigation, it is considered that the risk to the site is not significant based on the nature of the site and the surrounding area, with further mitigation measures to be considered as part of the development proposals where necessary.
No other sources of flooding have been identified which are considered to pose a significant risk to the development.
Drainage
Surface Water
Surface Current legislation and guidance require developers to manage surface water run-off from new development, to mitigate flood risk to the site and surrounding area and to provide a sustainable means of disposing of run-off from impermeable areas of the site.
Surface water run-off from the new development should be managed via the design of a sustainable drainage system (SuDS). The possible drainage options considered for the site include the use of infiltration methods and discharging to a local watercourse or public sewer network.
Based on currently available information, it is anticipated that the characteristics of the strata underlying the site will prove suitable for the use of infiltration techniques and therefore this is the preferred strategy for the discharge of surface water runoff from the development.
It is proposed to incorporate a variety of SuDS features throughout the development proposals, which will provide ecological and water quality benefits through the dilution, filtration and settlement of solid particles.
Foul Drainage
A new foul water drainage network will be constructed to accommodate the requirements of the proposed development. The new network will collect and convey foul water discharge from the development to the existing public sewer network.
Ecology
Detailed ecological work will support a planning application. An initial site walkover has not identify any ecological constraints on the Site and a habitat survey recorded habitats of limited ecological value. The site is subject to ongoing ecological surveys. This includes bat surveys in regard to foraging, commuting and roosting bats; and assessment of off-site points within 2350m of the Site in terms of the potential for Great Crested Newts. The work undertaken has identified that no further badgers, bird or reptile surveys are required.
By integrating ecological considerations into the design process, we expect to provide enhancements on site in terms of habitat type and diversity as well as opportunities for protected species.