Flood Risk Assessments

Unfortunately due to a staff shortage we currently have a backlog of up to 6 weeks. We regret that it will not be possible to provide revised determination dates for applications as we try our best to determine these as efficiently as possible.

With the exception of domestic extensions, all planning applications for proposals located in Flood Risk Zone 3, as identified by the Environment Agency must be accompanied by a Flood Risk Assessment.

In practice this means that all developments on Canvey, with the exception of domestic extensions must have a Flood Risk Assessment. This also applies to some parts of South Benfleet.

To see whether your property is in Flood Risk Zone 3 visit the Environment Agency's website.

The requirements of a Flood Risk Assessment are set out in the National Planning Policy Framework and the associate Planning Practice Guidance.

National and Policy Framework and Planning Practice Guidance

Detailed modelling of areas at risk of flooding, along with locally specific guidance on flood risk issues can be found in the South Essex Strategic Flood Risk Assessment.

To help developers overcome difficulties with Flood Risk Assessments, the following guidance note have been prepared for developments of less than 10 dwellings on Canvey Island.

Flood Risk Assessment Guidance for Small Scale Developments [pdf] 141KB

In all other cases, developers are encouraged to contact the Environment Agency with details of their plans and a draft Flood Risk Assessment in advance of submitting a planning application. The Environment Agency can be contacted at the following address:

Environment Agency, Anglian Region - Eastern Area, Cobham Road, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP3 9JE

Tel: 08708 506 506

Email: enquiries@environment-agency.gov.uk