Decision details

To seek Cabinet approval of the Funding Strategy principles and joint working arrangements with the Environment Agency to deliver the Bristol Avon Flood Strategy.  To note the indicative future allocation of community infrastructure levy funding for the project and authorise the submission of funding bids.

That Cabinet

1. Approved the Initial Collaborative Agreement between Bristol City Council and the Environment Agency at Appendix A2, noting the Memorandum of Agreement between Bristol City Council and the Environment Agency (Appendix A1) setting out the partnership relationship between the two organisations for the purpose of delivering the project.

2. Noted the need for development to align with the Bristol Avon Flood Strategy, in advance of adoption of the updated Local Plan.

3. Noted the need to resist development that is incompatible with the emerging Strategy, including in respect of coherence and connectivity of the riverside corridor.

4. Approved the Planning Position Statement at Appendix A3 to reinforce and consolidate Bristol City Council’s current position in respect of development in areas of flood risk.

5. Noted the emerging funding strategy principles as set out in Appendix A4.

6. Authorised the Executive Director, Growth and Regeneration, in consultation with the Deputy Mayor, City Economy, Finance and Performance, and the S151 Officer to prepare and submit a business case to apply to WECA for Economic Development Funds to the value of £10m, to support the delivery of the physical works, as identified as Bristol City Council’s programme allocation in the BAFS SOC.

7. Authorised the Executive Director, Growth and Regeneration, in consultation with the Deputy Mayor, City Economy, Finance and Performance, to approach WECA to prioritise support for the delivery of the physical works in future funding applications.

8. Approved an allocation of Community Infrastructure Levy towards delivery of the Bristol Avon Flood Strategy of £20.395m from FY 2025/6 to 2031/2 inclusive (being typically £3m/yr but £2.395m in 2026/7) into the budget setting process for 2023/24 for Full Council consideration in February 2023.

9. Noted Council’s March 2022 budget allocation of £10m of Reserves towards delivery of the Bristol Avon Flood Strategy.