A Strategic Flood Risk Assessment and Hydrological Assessment was completed by consultants to support the County Development Plan 2022-2028.

Included in the Risk Assessment is a review of riparian zones with definitions, mapping and objectives. The policy requires hydro-morphological assessments where proposed development lands are wholly or partly within riparian corridors.

A strategy for opening up culverted streams is being developed for the sequential removal of culverts along watercourse routes and allowing adjacent land areas to flood while minimising the risk of flooding to properties. The project is being carried out in cooperation with neighbouring local authorities to ensure that the removal of restricting structure is done in sequence.