A survey of just 20 LPDF members showed that 57000 homes are being delayed by the flood risk sequential test being used during the planning process for homes in areas that may be affected by surface water flooding. The Flood Risk Sequential Test is a sensible way to deal with issues of river and tidal flooding. It doesn't make sense to use it for surface water flooding that could be dealt with through drainage.
We're calling for a simple change to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) that would unlock hundreds of thousands of homes across the country.
181. The sequential test should not be applied where a site (or its access) is within Flood Zone 1 and is subject only to surface water flood risk which can be mitigated as part of the development.
Planning resource has covered this issue - you can read about it here:
Friday 27th June 2025
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