About Floods Directive
Protecting the community is at the heart of the Floods Directive approach. To do this, it aims to manage the adverse consequences that flooding has on human health, the environment, cultural heritage and economic activity. The Directive will focus on:
- Prevention: of flood damage avoiding construction of houses and industries in present and future flood-prone areas; by adapting future developments to the risk of flooding; and by promoting appropriate land-use, agricultural and forestry practices.
- Protection: taking measures, both structural and non-structural, to reduce the likelihood and impact of floods.
- Preparedness: informing the public about flood risk and what to do in the event of a flood.
To achieve its objectives, the Directive will address flood risk in Northern Ireland on a
catchment wide scale. This is because flooding problems may be affected by the characteristics catchment. The Floods Directive requires consideration of flooding sea, rivers and lakes, surface water and reservoirs. By assessing the ‘bigger picture’ we can ensure that the flood risk is fully understood which will help us make sustainable, long term decisions.
Flood risk management through the Floods Directive takes place alongside government’s ongoing programme of drainage and flood alleviation measures.
Click on the links to the right to learn more about the Floods Directive, its four stages, areas of study and the timeline for its delivery.
