London scoping - ukcip

Final Report
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8.2.2 Climate Change Potential Adaptation Options
The following table summarises the climate change adaptation options for London.
Climate Impact Adaptation Options
Flooding Accelerated investment in existing flood defence programmes.
Improved flood risk identification, forecasting and awareness.
Avoidance of developments in at risk areas or making sure that adequate protection is in
place.
Use of green/open spaces for temporary water storage to alleviate flooding.
These latter two points are incorporated in specific policies in the draft London Plan (see
below). Other options to address increased flood risk include:
• Improved flood warning systems;
Water Resources Reductions in leakage.
• Ensure that adequate resources and systems are available for responses to climate
related emergency events e.g. flooding;
• Long term planning for managed re-alignment in the Thames Estuary;
• Establishment of green corridors on the north and south banks of the Thames and
London’s other rivers as a flooding buffer zone and creation of areas for habitats and
species;
• Adjustment of timespan for planning permissions allowing flexibility over future
development options in the light of climate change. This would have implications for
the users of the development;
• Promotion of flood proofing on buildings at increased risk from flooding;
• Use/re-creation of natural eco-system buffers;
• Use of sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS);
• Guidance on building design and developments that will be able to adapt to climate
change should be included in the GLA’s planned supplementary planning guidance
on sustainable buildings; and
• Increased collaboration between government bodies, developers and insurance
companies could provide an economic impetus for appropriate, sustainable
developments in areas at increased flood risk that need economic regeneration.
Extension of metering.
Promotion of water efficient appliances.
Development of innovative water resource options.
‘Use Water Wisely’ campaigns.
Restrictions on non-essential use.