Brief summary

Following initial findings from the risk assessment stages of the Case Study SWMPs, the Northumbria Local Levy commissioned Newcastle University to produce the CityCAT modelling tool.

The specification described a novel and unique software tool for modelling, analysis and visualisation of urban surface water flooding and experimentation of flood alleviation measures. Outlined below are the challenging and conflicting demands that CityCAT has been developed to achieve and are currently not met by any existing software:

• Create accurate representations of complex and dynamic surface flow for urban floods
• Ensure speed of analysis, ease of use and visualisation for rapid scoping studies are all included
• Develop the capability for rapid introduction and testing of flood risk management interventions by personnel with limited modelling expertise
• Ensure rapid applicability to any UK city using standard GIS data sets

The solution CityCAT (City Catchment Analysis Tool) is based on an existing state-of-the-art Noah 2-D hydrodynamic model developed previously at Newcastle University. This has been adapted and enhanced to provide advanced capability and accuracy in a user-friendly, interactive and visual environment

The tool currently exists as a proof of concept and development of a fully capable tool is under way. General capabilities include:
When creating the modelling domain, automatic recognition of buildings is completed using OS MasterMap Data to form discreet polygons. The model grid is then clipped around these polygons and separate attributes can be set for each building polygon.

Flow routes, flood barriers, storage areas and infiltration zones can be created in the model domain using the Graphical User Interface.
Ground infiltration rates can be applied by utilising MasterMap data and generic infiltration rates.

Capability to add in a sub surface sewer network will be available along with the ability to input other layers of detail.

The model domain automatically recognises flyovers and bridges by using MasterMap roads data. This automatic editing of the domain will save significant time and money in the pre-processing of the model.
Graphics will be supplied throughout the modelling run with the capability to take screen dumps. 

The final tool is due to be completed by April 2011 and will be used in an Environment Agency Flood Risk Science project to be ground truthed.

Start date

January 2010

Finish date

April 2011

Organisations involved

Environment Agency and Newcastle University

Contact

Peter Kerr