Integrated Design

The aim of the LifE project is to identify ways in which the means of managing flood risk can be integrated within development sites to meet objectives for zero carbon, high quality, sustainable developments at minimum cost.

This aim can be summarised as:

• Integrated design approach,
• Non-defensive flood risk management,
• Long-term and adaptable measures,
• Providing wider benefits to the development and community,
• Reducing the economic obstacles to delivering,
• Responsible and sustainable development.

An integrated design approach (see illustration) seeks to use land and water assets for multiple functions, such as selective development, recreation, renewable energy production, local food production, water storage and flood alleviation.

Illustrated diagram of an integrated spatial plan, showing selective development integrated with flood risk management measures and sustainable development.