Implementation of flood risk management measures into spatial plans and policies

Abstract

AbstractFloods and risk in river basins can only effectively be reduced if, in addition to technical measures, spatial planning regulates land use in flood‐prone areas. The development of new settlements and industry has to be kept out of the main risk zones. Furthermore detention areas as well as room for river functions must be safeguarded in a long‐term perspective. To make the requirements of flood risk management applicable for regional planning approaches, the Rhine basin is divided into eight different ‘action areas’, according to the following criteria: (1) prevailing flood danger, (2) geophysical situation and (3) possible effects of retention measures. Groups of required actions are assigned to each action area. By this means the framework for regional flood risk management in the Rhine basin is determined.In this framework the improved application of regulative instruments is recommended. Based on obligatory hazard maps graded for different planning levels, regional and local planning activities have to regulate the land use in flood‐prone and detention areas. A two‐zone concept is recommended. Priority zones shall prevent the rise of vulnerability in high risk zones. Reserve zones deliver restrictions and demands on precautionary measures concerning the constructions. The comparison of different planning systems in countries throughout the Rhine basin shows many similarities but also fundamental differences in the planning instruments and their application. In the framework of an interregional co‐operation structure (‘flood management alliance’) it is recommended that the approaches are harmonized in terms of a common basic methodology. Additionally, financial compensation and burden sharing between downstream and upstream regions have to support the implementation of the strategies into spatial plans and policies. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.