TAN 15: Nine Months On

The Technical Advice Note (TAN) 15 provides essential guidance for local authorities, developers, planners and flood-risk specialists on managing development, flooding and coastal erosion in Wales.

TAN 15 has come a long way from its release in 2004, with its …

PFAS – the “forever chemicals” threatening our water

What Are PFAS?

Poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large family of over 7,000 synthetic chemicals that have been in use since the 1940s. Known for their durability, PFAS contain strong carbon-fluorine bonds, making them resistant to heat, water,

From neutral to reverse. Gove changes gear.

Nutrient neutrality rules that protect water quality are under threat in England. The government argues that 100,000 additional homes will be built in the next decade as a result.

Neutral for now

Excess nutrients into waterways can lead to eutrophication:

Crystal clear

WHS can ensure that piled foundations and penetrating ground improvements present no risk to controlled waters.

Piled foundations and penetrating ground improvements can affect controlled waters

Depending on ground conditions and development loads, some foundations need to be supported on

All for one and one for all?

Economic pressures, social divides, and pressing environmental problems fuel angst in today’s world. The pessimism of ‘eco-anxiety’ is driven by fear for the environment’s future, and flood risks feature large. We must shape something different.

“The best way to predict

The long and winding road

Replacing an established plan is never straightforward. Accepted norms are challenged and disruption usually follows. This has certainly been the case for the Welsh Government as they have sought to update their TAN15 planning guidance.

2004

The planning guidance that

The light at the end of the tunnel

Almost 13 years to the day after gaining royal assent, Schedule 3 of The Flood and Water Management Act is scheduled for implementation, offering a clearer way forward for sustainable drainage measures in England.

As of 10 January 2023 the …

On a collision course with nature

Hurricanes, aka tropical cyclones, are one of the most extraordinary and potent forces seen in nature. One of the world’s most at-risk areas is the east coast of America, but what lessons are there for the UK?

Hitting the US …

Something we must treasure

The UK has long been defined by its relationship with water, but this is changing. In every region watercourses face multiple stresses. In England only 14% of rivers are classified as having good ecological status. Our waterways are our national