The first stage in the design strategy is to determine the types of flooding and
their characteristics which are likely to impact the development site. In most cases
this will have been considered in the FRA/FCA during the planning process (see
Chapter 3). Where an FRA/FCA is not required as part of the planning process,
estimates of these characteristics will still be required. The Environment Agency or
Local Planning Authority should always be the first points of contact for
information for FRA/FCA. It may also be necessary to seek historical data from
other local sources of information e.g. libraries, existing residents, community
associations and newspapers. Some areas have active local Flood Groups