Taking flood risk seriously
Flooding and drainage
We recognise that flooding and drainage are important issues for residents in Motcombe and these considerations have therefore informed the proposals from the outset.
Parts of the site are affected by flood-risk and drainage constraints. The emerging masterplan responds to these by locating the proposed homes outside areas identified as being at risk of flooding, with affected areas retained for appropriate non-built uses, including open space and potential drainage features.
Specialist drainage consultants are working with the project team to develop a comprehensive surface-water drainage strategy. This will consider how rainfall and surface water can be managed within the site and ensure that the development does not increase flood risk elsewhere.
We are also aware of local concerns regarding the age and capacity of existing drainage and foul-water infrastructure. This was specifically raised during our early discussions with representatives involved in the Neighbourhood Plan. Further technical work will therefore consider the capacity of the existing network, how the proposed development can be appropriately served and whether any improvements or upgrades may be required.
Any future planning application will be supported by appropriate flood-risk and drainage assessments. These will need to demonstrate that the development can be safely and effectively drained, that existing flood-risk conditions will not be worsened and that an appropriate long-term drainage solution can be delivered.
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Will the development make existing flooding worse?
The proposals will need to demonstrate through detailed technical evidence that the development will not increase flood risk on the site or elsewhere. The emerging masterplan already responds to known flood-risk constraints by avoiding built development within affected areas.
The detailed drainage strategy will also consider how surface water can be managed within the development, including opportunities to incorporate sustainable drainage measures as part of the wider landscape and open-space proposals.
The capacity of the existing foul-water network will be considered separately as the proposals progress, with the project team working with the relevant authorities and infrastructure providers to identify any necessary measures or improvements
What happens next?
Following consultation, we will review all the feedback received alongside the continuing technical work. Where appropriate, the emerging masterplan will then be amended before the proposals progress towards a planning application.