Flood predictor expected to help Glasgow planners

PLANNERS and housing developers considering possible construction projects along the Rover Clyde – from the east of Glasgow city centre to the town of Greenock in the west – are being invited to first interrogate an updated ‘map’, predicting the risk of flooding, from increased sea levels.

Says the city’s council (here): “Sea levels are predicted to rise because of climate change, and, as a result, the risk of flooding for existing and new communities will increase.”

The modelling has been carried out in collaboration with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA).

Adds the city’s council: “SEPA and local authorities agree that the model (which can be accessed via here) represents the best available understanding of current and future flood risk from the tidal Clyde for coastal flooding events, including storm surges and sea level rise, to the year 2100.”

It continues: “Development sites along the banks of the Clyde, many of which have lain vacant for many years, should be developed in a way that recognises the challenge of increased flood risk due to climate change.  This challenge can be addressed through sensitive design that aligns with an overarching principle of no net loss of the functional floodplain, and gives consideration to land use vulnerability, and water resilient construction and operational practices.”

Picture credit: Glasgow City Council