Water Framework Directive and Flooding – Implications for Flooding Policies in Scotland

The Water Framework Directive (WFD) came into force in December 2000. It is widely recognised as one of the most far-reaching pieces of environmental legislation ever to emerge from Europe.

The WFD has substantial legal and administrative implications for the future of flood risk management in the UK. In Scotland, these implications were recognised and the Water Environment and Water Services (Scotland) Act 2003 introduced a new duty on Scottish ministers, SEPA and ‘responsible’ authorities to promote sustainable flood management.