Review of the Preliminary Flood Risk Assessment (PFRA)

Non-statutory consultation on the Review of the PFRA

The objective of the National Preliminary Flood Risk Assessment (PFRA), that was a requirement of the EU ‘Floods’ Directive, was to identify areas where the risks associated with flooding might be significant. These areas, referred to as Areas of Potentially Significant Flood Risk (APSFRs), are where detailed flood maps must then be prepared and measures developed to manage and reduce this risk where possible. The PFRA was completed in 2012 after public consultation. The APSFRs identified through the PFRA were then the focus of the National Catchment-based Flood Risk Assessment and Management (CFRAM) Programme.

The PFRA is reviewed, and if necessary updated, on a cyclical basis. The first review of the PFRA (under the 2nd cycle of implementation of the ‘Floods’ Directive) was completed in 2019. The second review of the PFRA (under the 3rd cycle of implementation) has now been undertaken.

The scope and approach undertaken to review and, if necessary, update the PFRA and the APSFRs for the 3rd cycle of implementation of the ‘Floods’ Directive was determined by the OPW in consultation with the National ‘Floods’ Directive Coordination Group, with oversight provided through the Interdepartmental Flood Policy Coordination Group.

The review has involved an updated predictive assessment, making use of the national indicative flood maps that are now available, as well as a review of past floods and consultation with local authorities and other relevant stakeholders. Before finalising the Review of the PFRA, the OPW are consulting with the public on the PFRA and the proposed outcomes.

The Draft Report for Consultation on the Review of the PFRA is available here