Flood Risk Management (Scotland) Act 2009 implementation: report to the Scottish Parliament - 2020

Introduction and Background

Flooding is a natural occurrence which can have devastating consequences on individuals, businesses and communities across Scotland. We now understand there are around 284,000 homes, businesses and services across Scotland at risk of flooding from rivers, surface water and the sea. The risk of flooding to people, communities and buildings is amongst the most severe climate risks for Scotland and is the costliest hazard to businesses. A further 110,000 properties may be at risk due to climate change by the 2080's under a high emissions scenario.

Flood risk is a measure of the likelihood that a flood event will happen and of its potential adverse consequences. The long-term aim of the Scottish Government and its partners is to reduce this risk. While flooding is sometimes unavoidable, steps can be taken to reduce the likelihood of a flood event occurring, to minimise its impact and to help those affected by flood events.

A framework for coordination and cooperation at a national and local level was developed in the Flood Risk Management (Scotland) Act 2009 (hereby referred to as "the Act"), which clearly sets out the roles and responsibilities of the key agencies involved in flood risk management, notably the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) and responsible authorities such as local authorities and Scottish Water.

This report outlines the progress of work being carried out within 2020 by Scottish Government, SEPA, Local Authorities, Scottish Water and the other responsible authorities through the implementation of the Act.

Report to the Scottish Parliament – 2020

Laid before the Scottish Parliament by Scottish Ministers under Section 52 of the Flood Risk Management (Scotland) Act 2009.

August 2021

SG/2021/181