Air and Flood Consultants
Specialist Air Quality & Flood Risk Assessments for Planning Applications in the UK
At Air and Flood Consultants, we provide expert environmental assessments to support planning applications across the UK. We specialise in Air Quality and Flood Risk Assessments, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements while promoting sustainable and resilient developments. Our tailored reports help developers, architects, and planners navigate environmental challenges efficiently.
Air Quality Assessment
Our Basic Air Quality Assessments (AQA) cover the essential requirements for planning applications, including:
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Minor Developments in Air Quality Management Areas (AQMA) and Air Quality Focus Areas (AQFA)across London and the UK.
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Air Quality Statement Plan – summarising key findings and compliance with local air quality policies.
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Air Quality Dust Risk Assessment (AQDRA) – evaluating construction-phase dust emissions and required mitigation measures.
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Transport Impact on Local Air Quality – assessing the impact of increased vehicle movements on local road networks.
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Air Quality Neutral Assessment – covering both Transport Emissions and Building Emissions assessments.
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Ventilation Strategy – providing recommendations for optimal indoor air quality in new developments.
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Specific Air Quality Analysis – using existing air quality monitoring data to evaluate pollution levels at the development site.
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Receptor Exposure Mapping – assessing how many receptors (e.g., homes, schools, hospitals) will be exposed to poor air quality due to the development, with their locations mapped.
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Mitigation Planning & Justification – outlining strategies to reduce air pollution and protect occupants from exposure, including:
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Building Design Considerations – optimising orientation and elevation to reduce exposure to pollutants.
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Green Infrastructure – integrating green walls, screens, and urban trees to improve air quality naturally.
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Operational Strategies – implementing sustainable transport plans, emissions reduction initiatives, and dust control measures for construction activities.
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A Flood Risk Assessment (FRA) evaluates potential flood risks and minimises flood impact. It is generally required for:
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All developments located in Flood Zone 2 or 3, as defined by the Environment Agency flood map for planning.
A FRA is also required for sites in Flood Zone 1 if:
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All sites of 1 hectare or larger.
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Sites within a Critical Drainage Area (CDA), regardless of size.
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All basement developments in streets identified as flood-prone, historic watercourse locations, or areas with an elevated risk of groundwater flooding.
SuDS Strategy
We provide SuDS Strategies to support planning applications, particularly where policy requires clear and deliverable surface water management solutions.
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Outline calculations of surface water runoff rates and attenuation volumes in line with site conditions and relevant policy targets (e.g. 50% betterment).
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A site-specific review of sustainable drainage opportunities, with proposals tailored to the development layout and constraints.
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Detailed information on proposed SuDS features, including:
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Location and spatial arrangement
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Attenuation capacity and performance
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Specification and structural considerations
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Construction and operational requirements
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Access and ongoing maintenance plan
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Preparation of preliminary drainage layout plans showing SuDS integration within the site strategy.
