All new developments, regardless of their location, must adopt a proactive and integrated approach to flood risk management. While Flood Zone 1 is categorised as having a low annual probability of fluvial or tidal flooding, it does not account for intense rain periods which can overwhelm the ground's ability to absorb it or exceeds the capacity of drains.
Small changes to residential properties can impact off-site infrastructure. For example, replacing a front garden to a non-porous concrete will increase the volume and speed of water entering the sewer system.
Therefore, every development proposal must demonstrate that they have considered the impacts of surface water and flooding.
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Planning process and design guide
Please review the documents below, which provide a guide for what level of information should be submitted at different stages through the planning application process. This document is relevant for both small and large developments.
The guide also details a range of possible sustainable drainage features which could be implemented across a site and what types of SuDS features the local highways authority adopts.
Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) mimic natural drainage in urban areas. Instead of putting surface water into pipes under the ground, water is allowed to stay at the surface where it is cleaned and stored. This prevents flooding and improves water quality before it seeps into the ground or flows into rivers. SuDS also support biodiversity.
Contact the Drainage Team
Sustainable Drainage Team
Peterborough City Council
Dodson House
Peterborough
PE1 5XG
Email: drainage@peterborough.gov.uk
Phone: 01733 747474