William Eichler 04 May 2018

Housing should be ‘more resilient’ to flood damage, architects say

The Government needs to help home owners and communities become more resilient to flood damage rather than just focus on keeping the water out, an architecture charity says.

A new report from the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has argued Whitehall needs to build homes and buildings that will be ‘future-proofed’ against flooding.

In order to achieve this the report recommended the Government develop a new approach to decision-making and regulation in tackling flooding threats, and encourage innovation in flooding resilience in the housing and urban design sector.

RIBA proposed Whitehall pilot ‘Licences for Innovation’ to examine the effectiveness of new approaches to managing flood risk in new developments.

The charity also recommended the Government examine the potential for regulations on flood resilience to be linked to Flood Zone Designations through Building Regulations and planning policy.

Currently, one in six homes in the UK are at risk of flooding – a number that is expected to double by 2050. It is estimated it causes an average of £1.4bn of damage each year to businesses and households.

‘In the next 30 years, the number of homes at risk of flooding is expected to double. Now is the time to adapt and think creatively about how to tackle this threat,’ said RIBA President Ben Derbyshire.

‘The RIBA urges the Government to step up and encourage the collaboration and innovation needed to create new homes and communities that are resilient to the devastating effects of flooding.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Housing

North West Leicestershire District Council
£64,241 to £74,525 (plus car allowance)
We are currently seeking a new Head of Housing to lead a number of key service areas Leicestershire
Recuriter: North West Leicestershire District Council

Director of People

Bolton Cares
£80,287 – subject to skills and experience
Bolton Cares is on an exciting journey of transformation and growth and we’re looking for a dynamic, people-focused leader to help shape our future. Bolton, Greater Manchester
Recuriter: Bolton Cares

Director of Finance (Strategy) – deputy S151

Nottingham City Council
up to £125k
Nottingham is a bold, vibrant, and exciting Core City at the heart of the UK, alive with potential and ambition. Nottingham, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Nottingham City Council

Adult Learning Tutor Maths WMF2142e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£35,235.00 - £36,124.00 (pro rata)
We are looking for an inspirational tutor to deliver maths courses to our learners across Carlisle. Carlisle, Cumbria
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Adult Learning Tutor ESOL English WMF2144e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£35,235 - £36,124 (pro rata)
We are looking for an enthusiastic and self-motivated individual with experience of teaching ESOL. Whitehaven, Cumbria
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council
Linkedin Banner