Exploring our Flood Risk Assessment (FRA) Services
When it comes to Flood Risk Assessments, JBA wrote the book. We are recognised experts in Flood Risk Management, read on to find out more about our FRA services.
Leading the way in the assessment and management of flood risk in Ireland
We are recognised experts in Flood Risk Management, providing services ranging from strategic level assessments for County Development Plans and Local Area Plans to site-specific evaluations for large residential and commercial planning applications. At JBA, we conduct numerous flood risk assessments annually. Our proven skills and experience make us a natural partner and a leading provider of the comprehensive services needed to support communities to become more resilient. Our teams specialise in flood risk mapping and modelling for complex river and tidal systems, as well as small-scale drainage networks. With extensive experience working with both private sector development and planning clients and public sector clients of all sizes. We have established solid credentials and long-term relationships with planning authorities across Ireland and the OPW.
The Planning System and Flood Risk Management: Guidelines for Planning Authorities
Drawing on our comprehensive understanding of the planning system, development pressures, and expectations, JBA was commissioned by the OPW, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFF), and the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government (DoEHLG) to create these guidelines for planners, engineers, and developers. The guidance aims to ensure that flood risk is fully considered during the development planning stage and in the design of the built environment in flood risk areas. It introduces a managed approach to flood risk that will help in the implementation of the EU Floods Directive.
Site Specific Flood Risk Assessments
Whether you're looking for a site-specific FRA as a planning requirement or otherwise, we can help you. Our experts were not only commissioned to produce The Planning System and Flood Risk Management: Guidelines for Planning Authorities by the OPW, DAFF and DoEHLG, but they have also worked with many local authorities to provide training and guidance to planners in setting standards for flood risk assessments.
We have extensive experience in completing fully compliant FRAs and offer three levels of assessment to satisfy the Justification Test. Our experts can advise on which is most appropriate for your development. Read on to find out more about each level.
FRA Level 1 - Flood Risk Identification
We will conduct an investigation and report to identify any potential flooding or surface water issues that may need further investigation or to confirm that the site has a low risk of flooding from any source. Additionally, we will provide an initial recommendation as part of this assessment stage. This will enable developers to make informed decisions by considering flood risks, potential impacts on the development, and budgetary constraints.
FRA Level 2 - Initial Flood Risk Assessment
The Level 2 assessment expands upon Level 1 and encompasses the following:
- Appraisal of the availability and adequacy of existing flood risk information.
- Qualitative appraisal of flood risk posed to the site and the potential impacts the development will have on flood risk elsewhere.
- Production of an FRA including possible flood risk mitigation measures to reduce flood risk to acceptable levels.
FRA Level 3 - Detailed Flood Risk Assessment
The Level 3 assessment is conducted only if previous stages indicate the need for quantitative analysis to evaluate flood risk issues related to the development site. Our assessment will result in the creation of a detailed FRA which may include:
- Conducting a topographic survey of the channel and surrounding ground levels.
- Performing a hydrological assessment of the catchment.
- Carrying out hydraulic calculations and modelling to measure the flood risk to the site.
- Evaluating any offsite flood risk impacts.
- Reviewing existing and proposed surface water drainage arrangements.
- Determining suitable flood risk mitigation measures.
