Flood Risk Assessment (FRA) and Drainage Assessment – Minorca Drive, Carrickfergus

Flood Risk Assessment (FRA)

We have recently successfully undertaken a combined Flood Risk Assessment (FRA) and Drainage Assessment (DA) for a major new housing development in Carrickfergus (>100 houses). The proposed development site is located adjacent to the Woodburn River, and covers an area of approximately 20ha. In addition to the Woodburn River, 2 No. bridges are located onsite, and a number of reservoirs are located upstream from the site. As is required by Rivers Agency Planning Response Team, these features also needed to be considered within the Flood Risk Assessment.

The Flood Risk Assessment (FRA) reviewed the potential risks to the site from the adjacent Woodburn River, reservoirs and coastal flooding from the Belfast Lough.

Drainage Assessment (DA)

The Drainage Assessment was used to aid the final drainage design for the site, and proved that the proposed site would not increase flooding within or downstream of the site. Where required, exceedance flow mitigation measures were included within the Development Plan.

Outcome

Northern Ireland Rivers Agency have approved both the Flood Risk Assessment and Drainage Assessment for the site, and are content with the findings of the report – the combination of coastal, reservoir, pluvial and fluvial flood risk at the site does not put the proposed development at an unacceptable level of risk.