Flood recovery framework

Overview

The Flood Recovery Framework (the Framework) sets out clearly the respective responsibilities for flood recovery caused by extreme weather events.

The Framework sets out the terms under which we would make available support for local councils. It outlines the eligibility criteria, triggers for providing this support, and mechanisms for distribution.

Financial support provided under the Framework aims to help communities and businesses return to normalcy or adapt to a more sustainable arrangement following a flooding event.

Roles and responsibilities

The Framework is underpinned by the existing roles and responsibilities for managing flood risk and responding to flood events as set out below:

Property and business owners

Responsible for:

• managing their own risks
• protecting their family, property, or business

The Scottish Government

Responsible for:

• overseeing the implementation of the Flood Risk Management (Scotland) Act 2009 including:
• setting the Policy Framework for flood management
• approving the objectives and actions set out in the Flood Risk Management Plans

Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA)

Responsible for:

• undertaking flood forecasting and provide warnings to the public and emergency responders when flooding is likely
• producing Scotland’s strategic Flood Risk Management Plans
• providing flood risk advice to Planning Authorities

Local councils

Responsible for:

• producing Local Flood Risk Management Plans which set out how actions in the SEPA plans will be implemented
• implementing and maintaining flood protection schemes
• inspecting, clearing and repairing watercourses and gullies on public highways to reduce flood risk
• coordinating emergency response within their own functions e.g. housing, etc. working with other key responders to support local communities
• holding particular responsibilities in respect of council owned properties

Scottish Water

Responsible for:

• operating public foul and combined sewers and the public waste water network
• managing problems caused by sewers either flooding or becoming restricted due to chokes or collapses
• removing foul drainage and the drainage of rainwater from roofs and paved areas, from within the curtilage of premises, on connection to the public sewer