Adaptive pathways
The National Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Strategy for England Glossary, published by the Environment Agency, defines adaptive pathways as: ‘pathways that enable local places to better plan for future flood and coastal change and adapt to future climate hazards. They can also be referred to as strategic investment pathways. This means being agile to the latest climate science, growth projections, investment opportunities and other changes to the local environment. Adaptive pathways better equip practitioners and policy makers to make the best decisions, taken at the right time to benefit people, infrastructure, the economy and the environment. Adaptive pathways should plan out to 2100 and beyond’.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Flood risk management.
- Future flood prevention.
- How adaptive planning is being used to future-proof water supplies in the South East.
- Lead local flood authorities LLFAs.
- Planning for floods.
[edit] External resources
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
Gasholders: a history in pictures. Book review.
Recognition, influence and growth
SocEnv identifies three strategic pillars in new strategy to 2045.
Discover the future of roofing, cladding and insulation.
New guidance for professional practice, cultural change and regulation in social housing.
The heritage of nuclear and conventional power stations.
New measures to stop people being ripped off
Government to protect families from cowboy builders and aggressive bailiffs.
New Futurebuild showcase brings an innovation-first approach.
National Planning Policy Framework
Understanding the 2026 changes.
ECA's public affairs priorities
Member consultation opens to shape priorities for 2027 to 2030.
Dutyholder responsibilities from 1 July 2026.
Where performance meets practice
The Building Envelope Stage at UKCW Birmingham.
CIAT publishes briefing on planning reforms.

















