While flooding from heavy rainfall is very unlikely London-wide, Hackney, along with all other boroughs in the capital, has been working towards identifying local areas most at risk to ensure the Council along with its residents and businesses is prepared.

Local flood planning work, which is part of the Greater London Authority’s overall Drain London project, aims to understand what causes flooding, where it may represent a risk and how boroughs can manage the risk and the impact on residents and businesses.

Although floods are extremely rare, they can happen in Hackney and their effect can be devastating. In addition to the localised flood warnings and planning information already published on the Council’s website, a preliminary flood risk assessment for the borough is now also available.

The Council has collected data from local and national sources including within the borough, the Environment Agency, Thames Water, emergency services and other risk management authorities such as Transport for London, in order to develop a clear overall understanding of the flood risks across Hackney.

The preliminary document includes maps showing areas at risk of flooding and aims to provide the best information available to allow residents and businesses to be better prepared and make informed choices.

While the production of maps indicating flood risk areas does not cause flooding, or mean it will definitely happen, under the Flood and Water Management Act 2010 and the Flood Risk Regulations (2009) it is the responsibility of the Council to give a general indication of risk areas. Also to provide information and advice on how everyone can reduce the risk to themselves and their property.

Councillor Feryal Demirci, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said: “All councils across the country have a responsibility to prepare for and manage possible flood waters. Although there has not been any serious flooding in the Hackney for more than 60 years, it is important the Council is prepared.

“We have been working with a number of partners, including the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, on the detailed technical work to determine the most appropriate measures to be taken. I’d encourage residents and businesses to familiarise themselves with Hackney’s flood preparations and plans, which are available on our website.”

For more information about Hackney’s flood warnings and planning, and the preliminary flood risk assessment including maps, visit the Council’s website: www.hackney.gov.uk/emergency-planning-floods

You can also check whether your area is at risk of flooding on the Environment Agency’s website: www.environment-agency.gov.uk/research/planning/135542.aspx#12

Follow us at: www.twitter.com/hackneyliving and www.facebook.com/hackneyliving