Tackling Flooding Together

 

We know how disruptive and damaging flooding can be for homes, communities, and the environment. That’s why we’ve developed a comprehensive strategy to reduce the risk and impact of flooding across our region. The Flooding Incident Reduction Plan (FIRP) 2025–2026  is a key part of that strategy.

The FIRP executive summary offers a high-level overview of our approach, drawn from a more detailed internal plan that guides our operational and strategic decisions.

 

We’re taking a smarter, stronger approach to flood resilience.

 
Our FIRP is a dynamic, evolving document designed to adapt to the challenges of a changing climate. It builds on the success of our Pollution Incident Reduction Plan and reflects our commitment to environmental protection, customer satisfaction, and regulatory excellence. 


We’re targeting a significant reduction in both internal and external flooding incidents in 2025-26, building on the improvements we’ve made in the past year. 

 

Understanding the causes of flooding 
Flooding in our region stems from a range of sources, including: 

 

  • Hydraulic overloading from excess surface and groundwater
  • Blockages caused by unflushables, fats, oils, and grease (FOG)
  • Severe weather events and climate-driven rainfall patterns 
  • Asset failures and third-party infrastructure issues 

 

Our strategic interventions 
To tackle these challenges, we’re investing in: 

 

  • Advanced modelling and visualisation tools to predict and prevent flooding 
  • Proactive maintenance and rapid response teams to address blockages and asset failures 
  • Customer education campaigns like Just Bin It  to reduce sewer misuse 
  • Collaborative partnerships with local authorities and communities to build resilience 

 

Innovation in action 

Our digital platform, The Hive, is transforming how we monitor and respond to network issues. By visualising real-time data, we can act faster and smarter to prevent incidents before they happen. 

Looking ahead 
With clear governance, ambitious targets, and a collaborative spirit, our FIRP is more than a plan. It is a promise to protect our communities, enhance our environment, and deliver a future where flooding is no longer a threat but a challenge we are ready to meet. 

 

Flooding Incident Reduction Plan (FIRP) 2025–2026 Executive Summary

File icon Flooding Incident Reduction Plan 2025