Classification of di erent sustainable flood retention basin types

Using a revised version of a previously published expert classification system, a database of potential Sustainable Flood RetentionBasins has been developed for Scotland. The research shows that the majority of small and former (often old) drinking water reservoirsare kept full and their spillways are continuously in operation. Utilising some of the available capacity to contribute to flood controlcould significantly reduce the costs of complying with the European Union Flood Directive. Furthermore, the application of a previouslydeveloped classification model for Baden in Germany for the Scottish data set showed a lower diversity for basins in Scotland due toless developed infrastructure. The classification system appears to be robust and has the potential, with minor modifications, to beapplied across Europe. The principle value of this approach is a clear and unambiguous categorisation, based on standard variables,which can help to promote communication and understanding between stakeholders.