From Paul Weller, Project Manager of the Flood & Coastal Risk Management Research Programme at the Environment Agency
The following projects have been delivered through the joint FCERM research programme, and their outputs are available on GOV.UK:
Project summaries
Understanding effective flood and coastal erosion risk governance in England and Wales
This project assessed the effectiveness of current flood and coastal risk management (FCERM) governance in England and Wales and whether it is fit for purpose for the future in the face of increasing risks posed by climate change. Lessons from the case studies include greater inter-partnership learning, along with continued sharing of good practices and reported challenges. Findings across partnerships are reported as 5 main themes: structure and purpose; actor relationships; resources and capacities; accountability and legitimacy; and alignment between governance levels. The project has also created practical guidance (in the form of journey planners) based on these themes, where FCERM and water management partnerships can assess and learn how to improve their governance arrangements.
Using flood risk information in spatial planning
This project analysed policy, guidance and strategic assessment documents to review how information on all flood sources is used in spatial planning to achieve good outcomes for flood risk management, and how that might be improved. The findings have been used to update the Environment Agency’s guidance on “how to prepare a strategic flood risk assessment”, and to inform the 2021 update to the national planning policy framework. A Strategic Flood Risk Assessment Good Practice Guide, which describes case study examples from the research, will soon be available on the ADEPT website.
Rainfall and river flow ensemble verification: Phase 2
This project has developed a new Ensemble Verification Framework to help interpret ensemble sets (scenarios) of forecasts of rainfall and river flow. Tools within the framework can be used to inform real-time decision-making during flood incidents.
- For those unfamiliar with the FCERM R&D programme, it is jointly overseen by Defra, the Environment Agency, Natural Resources Wales and Welsh Government on behalf of all risk management authorities in England and Wales.
- More information can be found at www.gov.uk/government/organisations/flood-and-coastal-erosion-risk-management-research-and-development-programme
- Or visit ‘Research at EA’ for details of all programmes www.gov.uk/government/organisations/environment-agency/about/research
