Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS): guidance for developers

Last updated: 12 December 2022

Lead Local Flood Authority (LLFA) Roles and Responsibilities

The LLFA’s Role as Statutory Consultee for surface water

As statutory consultee on major planning applications we review surface water drainage schemes submitted by the applicant. Surface water drainage schemes are proposals which demonstrate how applicants will manage surface water runoff from impermeable areas within their developments so as to not increase flood risk elsewhere.

As a statutory consultee, we are required to provide a detailed response to consultations we receive from the LPA within 21 days.

Our advice is based upon national policy (such as the National Planning Policy Framework and Planning Practice Guidance) and local policy as well as industry best practice guidance:

Applicants should note that the LLFA have a local arrangement to review and comment on minor developments of 3 dwellings or more.