ADAPTATION TO URBAN FLOODS BY PLANNING AND DESIGN : GUIDELINES FOR AN ADAPTIVE MANAGEMENT TO URBAN FLOODS AND STORM WATER USE TAKING AS A CASE STUDY THE CITY OF BILBAO

Abstract: The aim of this study is to propose a set of adaptive strategies and design solutions to manage floods and storm water in cities from the perspective of an architect and urban planner, based on empirical evidence and the level of effectiveness of the suggested measures. The study takes as an example the city of Bilbao due to its high risk of suffering fluvial and pluvial flooding exacerbated by tidal variations and see level rise projections. Based on the application of adaptation strategies grounded on the use of green solutions and innovative design, scientific literature and ongoing initiatives an projects in cities have been reviewed to prepare a complete state-of-the-art of measures and experiences to minimize the risk of flooding and provide co-benefits to Climate Change such as fresh water storage, biodiversity, water treatment, quality public spaces, etc. The applicability of this inventory of solutions is analyzed in detail for the case study of Bilbao, taking into account the current situation with regard: a) plans, b) stakeholders involved, c) needs and d) opportunities, and in order to give a respond to the lack of concreteness of many of the existing proposals against adaptation to Climate Change and flooding. The result are four different projects in hotspot areas of the city that put into practice the previously gathered measures organized in drainage systems (from the source to the downstream control). Recommendations are suggested for plans (General Master Plan) and policies to accompany the physical solutions and to set a complete basis for its operative use by public institutions (Bilbao City Council) or even professional practitioners (architects, urban designers, landscape architects, engineers). In sum, the paper seeks to propose alternatives to the traditional defensive approach of flooding prevention by implementing measures that provide other benefits for cities against Climate Change.