Responding to a 'flood of criticism': analysing the ebbs and flows of planning and floodplain development in England (1926-2015)

Abstract

The 'flood defence' role of the planning system, in minimising inappropriate development on floodplains, has again been underlined following extreme flood events in the winter of 2013-14. Yet planners are alleged by politicians and the media to ignore expert advice and 'wave through' developments on floodplains. Set against an enhanced understanding of the political pressure that planners have faced for indiscriminate new development over the past nine decades, it is claimed greater transparency and accountability is required in the decision making process, with an increase in public sector capacity and provision of skilled planners, to negotiate sensible, strategic and more resilient housing solutions.