The Act – Section by Section Part 3 – Flood Risk Assessment, Maps and Plans Section 49 – District flood risk advisory groups
159.This section provides for the establishment of district flood risk advisory groups. Subsection (1) requires each flood risk management district to have at least one advisory group.
160.Subsections (2) and (3) provide that the function of these groups is to advise SEPA on the preparation and review of flood risk assessments (sections 9 and 10), documents identifying potentially vulnerable areas and local plan districts (sections 13 and 14), assessments in relation to alteration of natural features and characteristics (section 20), flood risk and flood hazard maps (sections 21 and 24) and flood risk management plans (sections 27 and 33).
161.Subsection (4) requires SEPA to have regard to any advice given by advisory groups on these matters.
162.Subsections (5) and (6) allow SEPA to determine the remit, membership and procedures for each district advisory group. It may determine a group’s remit by reference to the geographic area and any other particular aspect of flood risk management.
163.When determining the number, remit and membership of groups, subsection (7) requires SEPA to try and ensure appropriate representation of the persons specified in section 30(5)(a) to (d) (responsible authorities, category 1 responders, Scottish Natural Heritage and National Park authorities) and other persons with an interest in flood risk management.