Last week, the Scottish Parliament passed the Flood Risk Management (Scotland) Bill. This legislation propels Scotland to the forefront of modern flood management law by having its emphasis on sustainability.
MNV is justifiably proud to have played such a significant role in the development of the policy and of the Bill. Working with the Scottish Government and Scottish Environment LINK, MNV was fundamental in the development of the principles of sustainable flood management and the leading authority on the role of natural flood management. MNV continues that contribution to the development of the legislation and its associated guidance today.
Modernisation of Scotland’s flood legislation was sorely needed. There is an increased risk of flooding from climate change, land management and planning practice. Previous flood legislation was not fit for dealing with those issues.
The new Flood Act will bring a modern, sustainable approach. It will clarify roles and responsibilities especially of local authorities, SEPA and Scottish Water. It will allow for a flexible and local approach to flood risk management with the river basin or sub-basin as the unit. Further, it will ensure that stakeholders are identified and involved and that the approach to flood risk management is integrated amongst the authorities. Maps of risks and assessments of hazards must be prepared and the authorities must give first consideration to natural flood management measures in lowering the flood risk to people and property.
The Bill will go for Royal Assent within the next few weeks, becoming an Act later in the summer of 2009.
