Residents of Brighton and Hove are being invited to share their opinions on a fresh approach to managing flood risks across the city.

Brighton and Hove City Council is asking local people for their input on a draft plan that sets out long-term measures to minimise flood dangers and safeguard homes, enterprises and essential services throughout the area.

Councillor Trevor Muten, who oversees transport and city infrastructure, explained that flooding can cause severe damage to properties, companies and communities, which makes having a clear roadmap for addressing these hazards essential going forward.

He noted that as climate change raises the probability of extreme weather occurrences, the city must strive to enhance its resilience as much as possible.

The council is working towards transforming the city into what they describe as a sponge city, using natural methods to soak up rainfall and reduce runoff.

Over 46,000 people in Brighton and Hove reside in zones vulnerable to surface water flooding, making this the primary flood concern for the city.

The proposed plan puts forward numerous measures, such as upgrading drainage networks, constructing or enhancing flood defence works and promoting sustainable drainage solutions within new building projects.

The document also backs nature-based approaches like retention ponds, planted rain gardens and afforestation, alongside boosting community readiness and adaptability.

The plan seeks to adopt a comprehensive, area-by-area method for flood risk, working together with householders, traders, developers and bodies such as Southern Water and the Environment Agency.

Councillor Muten stated that the authority wants to collect perspectives from inhabitants, companies and community groups while refining this plan.

Their contributions will assist in ensuring efforts concentrate on what matters most to local communities and that appropriate actions are taken to shield the city for years to come.

The consultation runs until September 30 and can be accessed at yourvoice.brighton-hove.gov.uk/en-GB/projects/flood-risk-management-plan.

While Brighton and Hove faces threats from various flood types including groundwater, sewage and tidal surges, rainwater-related surface water flooding remains the most urgent issue.

Responses will inform the development of the final document before it receives formal approval.

The council is urging anyone concerned about flood prevention, climate adaptation or protecting local communities to get involved.