Flood Risk Assessment for University for the Creative Arts, Epsom

Lustre Consulting was appointed by Savills on behalf of the University for the Creative Arts (UCA) to conduct a detailed Flood Risk Assessment (FRA) for its proposed redevelopment at The Wells, Epsom. This project is part of UCA’s multi-million-pound expansion, enhancing its Epsom campus facilities to better serve its student and staff communities.

The FRA was required to support the planning application for a change of use from an office building (Class E) to an educational facility (Class F1), including associated landscaping works. Our comprehensive assessment ensured the proposed development complied with national and local planning policies, enabling safe and sustainable development on the site.

Challenges and Considerations

The site, located in Flood Zone 1, was considered at low risk of flooding from rivers and seas but required an FRA due to its size and vulnerability change under the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). As the proposed development includes educational facilities, the vulnerability classification increased from “less vulnerable” to “more vulnerable.” Additionally, factors such as groundwater and surface water flooding potential had to be carefully evaluated.

Our Approach

To ensure compliance with the NPPF and local council requirements, Lustre Consulting undertook a thorough site-specific assessment, addressing:

1. Surface Water Flooding Risk: Analysis indicated that surface water risks could arise at the site boundaries during heavy rainfall events. Recommendations for sustainable drainage systems (SuDS), including rainwater harvesting and permeable landscaping, were provided to manage runoff effectively.
   
2. Groundwater Flooding Risk: While the site had limited historical flooding records, potential impacts on basement areas were considered. Measures to enhance flood resilience, such as maintaining existing ground levels and monitoring subsurface water pathways, were outlined.
   
3. Future-Proofing the Development: Strategies for integrating additional flood resistance measures and ensuring long-term safety were included, accounting for the impacts of climate change.

Outcome

Our FRA demonstrated that the development posed minimal flood risk to the site and surrounding areas while adhering to the strict guidelines set by Epsom and Ewell Borough Council. The planning authority was provided with robust evidence to support the application, ensuring the proposed educational use is safe and sustainable.

This FRA played a key role in advancing UCA’s Epsom campus expansion project, a transformative initiative detailed in UCA’s news article. The site, marketed by Savills, exemplifies the collaboration between architectural vision and environmental diligence.

For more information on how Lustre Consulting can assist with Flood Risk Assessments and related services, please contact us today.