177 Maidenhead Road
The Brief
RIDA Reports was appointed to undertake a detailed flood risk assessment for a proposed minor development at 177 Maidenhead Road, SL4 5EZ, located within the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead. The assessment was required to thoroughly evaluate site-specific flood risks and provide relevant flood mitigation to support the development.
Why the Client Chose RIDA
The client required specialist expertise to navigate local planning requirements and ensure strict compliance with the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and the local Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA). They chose RIDA for our ability to provide a robust, evidence-based assessment capable of addressing multi-source flood risks and establishing safe development parameters.
The Challenge
The site is located within Environment Agency Flood Zone 2, which carries a medium probability of fluvial flooding (between a 1 in 100 and 1 in 1,000 annual probability). In addition to the fluvial constraints, local mapping indicated a potential risk for groundwater flooding to occur at the surface. The challenge was to accurately assess these combined risks and demonstrate that the development would remain safe without increasing flood hazards elsewhere.
The RIDA Difference
We conducted a detailed flood risk assessment utilizing Environment Agency Flood Zone Maps and the standing advice approach recommended in the NPPF guidelines. By evaluating the development’s size alongside the water-compatible vulnerability of the land use, we successfully demonstrated that the Exception Test was not required for this site. To address the identified risks, we provided targeted flood mitigation recommendations that aligned seamlessly with the guidance set out in the Royal Borough’s SFRA.
The Outcome
The comprehensive assessment successfully evaluated all potential sources of flooding, with a specific focus on the Flood Zone 2 fluvial risks and surface groundwater potential. By establishing clear mitigation guidelines, the report provided the essential technical evidence required to demonstrate compliance with national and local policies, fully supporting the site’s planning requirements.
