NEW maps have been published by Christchurch Borough Council showing projected flood risk areas in the town up to the year 2126.

The Strategic Flood Risk Assessment maps have been drawn up as a government requirement and will become part of planning policy.

“This is the best data we have now and we will work with the Environment Agency on this,” said council planning policy officer Raeph Cumming.

One of the maps shows a worst case scenario in 2126 where large areas of Purewell, Stanpit, Mudeford and low-lying land al ongside the lower Stour are at risk of being inundated depending on the level of rainfall and effects of climate change.

“In reality the chances of that are very small,” said Mr Cumming.

Another map showing the same scenario, but including current flood defences will also be available to view on the dorsetforyou.com/sfra website. The maps and associated documents will also be available in the town’s library later this month.

“The study is not of huge alarm and concern but the maps are easily open to misinterpretation,” said Mr Cumming.

He said the council needed to keep on developing on flood plains because the town is constrained by physical barriers like the harbour and green belt land.

This could be done following a series of tests, dependent on need.

Any homes built in risk zones have to be made safe against flood damage with raised floor levels, high power points and safe access at times of flood.

The criteria is already being applied by council planners.