Flooding and the role of the local authority

Flooding is discussed in a variety of contexts: the frequency of its occurrence, the damage caused and the impact upon the lives of vulnerable people. The example of changes in Scottish legislation and the way in which East Ayrshire council has used these powers to protect its citizens are used as a case study for similar actions throughout the UK. The paper also comments upon the need for the engineer to make an informed judgement about the impact of climate change upon flood events.