Purpose

JBA Consulting were commissioned in October
2023 following a competitive tendering exercise to undertake a
Fylde Coast Level 1 Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA).

JBA Consulting are suitably qualified and experienced flood risk
hydrologist. They have developed local knowledge and expertise in
relation to flood risk within Wyre.

As a result of national revisions to flood risk published by the
Environment Agency in March 2025, additional flood risk assessment
work is now required to support the site allocations process for
the emerging Wyre Local Plan. This additional work could not have
been envisaged when the original study was commissioned.

The use of the same consultants who prepared the Level 1 SFRA to
undertake site specific assessment will ensure consistency in the
flood risk work undertaken for the Local Plan.

JBA Consulting have provided a quote for the work estimated at
£20,000 for two stage process. The quote is based on
exploratory modelling to assess the extent to which existing
generalised national modelling approaches may incorporate
conservative assumptions. The second stage assessment work if
required would include detailed modelling but would not be known
until the first phase of this commission is completed. A fee for
stage two has been estimated and would be included within the
contract.

Decision

To directly appoint JBA Consulting to
undertake site specific flood risk assessment to support the
emerging Wyre Local Plan.

Alternative options considered

An open tendering exercise was considered and
rejected due to the additional time it would take which would not
offer a satisfactory alternative without additional work being
necessary at additional cost and time. It would also not allow for
consistent flood risk advice for the Local Plan.