Land use and flood protection: contrasting approaches and outcomes in France and in England and Wales

Abstract Different approaches to the control of floodplain ‘encroachment’ exist in France and in England and Wales. In France, a ‘coercive’ approach emphasises strong central government intervention within a system of designated risk zones for all natural hazards. In England and Wales, a more ‘cooperative’ approach prevails, with the dominant power being with democratically elected local authorities. Ideas and policies are converging, however, as both local flexibility and national direction are shown to have implementation weaknesses as, in both countries, the development pressures on floodplains continue to grow.