Flooding is a threat now. Our climate is changing, increasing the likelihood of floods, droughts, rising temperatures and storms. The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) play a lead role in preparing Scotland for a changing climate. Identifying Potentially Vulnerable Areas (PVAs) to flooding is a vital part of protecting people, properties, businesses, communities, infrastructure and environment.

Recognising where PVAs are means we can target efforts to reduce flood risk where they are needed most. Working with our partners and public, we have used the best available evidence and previous feedback to understand the causes and consequences of flooding.

SEPA’s Flood Risk Management in Scotland - 2024 Consultation on PVA’s, seeks views on how we have reviewed and updated PVAs for flood risk management planning. Responses will help identify the places in Scotland which are at the greatest risk of the impacts of flooding both now and in the future.

The consultation is available on the SEPA website at https://consultation.sepa.org.uk/evidence-and-flooding/potentially-vulnerable-areas

The consultation will open on Monday 25 March to Monday 24 June 2024.

The preferred route for responses is through the online facility, however paper copies of the survey and supporting documentation can be seen and filled in at SEPA's Edinburgh, Euro-central and Aberdeen offices. If you would like to fill in a hard copy, please get in touch with the SEPA Contact centre (SCC) on 03000 996699 to arrange an appointment. Selected sections may be translated by SEPA on request if required.