Luton and Dunstable Resilient and Adaptive Communities Information Page

Overview

The Resilient and Adaptive Communities (RAC) project spans the Luton and Dunstable area, and is a partnership project between the Environment Agency, Central Bedfordshire Council and Luton Council.

The towns of Luton and Dunstable are at a high risk of flooding from rivers, surface water, groundwater and sewers. Whilst much has been done to tackle flood risk over the years, the climate emergency, population growth and development pressures combine to make this a continuing and increasing threat.

The RAC project aims to address this risk of flooding to reduce the devastation and disruption that it can cause. When identifying measures to reduce flood risk we will seek to implement solutions that can also deliver wider associated social, environmental and economic improvements that will provide further benefits to local communities and businesses.

Setting the ambition

In collaboration with 16 local partner organisations we have prepared a document that sets out the vision and objectives that will guide the development of the RAC project looking ahead to 2100. It describes the current flood risk, environmental and socio-economic context and challenges facing the area, and outlines the project’s plan for defining an adaptive (flexible) approach to flood risk management.

Click here to read and download the RAC Vision document

Click here to watch a video introducing the Vision document

Vision

Working together to make our communities resilient to flood risk and adaptable to climate change. Aiming for solutions that will also provide wider environmental, social and economic benefits.

Objectives

• Places that are adaptable and resilient to a changing climate
• Communities that are engaged, listened to, and participate in healthy place-making
• Natural environment that is enhanced and robust
• Partnerships that explore opportunities and support delivery

Next Steps

A Strategy and Implementation Plan will be developed exploring a number of possible future scenarios and associated actions that could be taken to deliver the project objectives. This will be done in collaboration with organisations, businesses, and community groups. We are eager for everyone to have their say. If you would like to get involved in the project, please get in touch via PSO-HNL@environment-agency.gov.uk

What you can do now

Please consider the steps you can take to be more resilient to flooding:

• Ensure you are signed up to the Environment Agency’s free Flood Warning Service, and that you understand what to do for each level of warning
• Work with your neighbours to create a community flood plan so you know how to support each other in times of flood
• Gather essential items in a personal flood kit so that you are ready to respond