The Government has pledged £7.9bn for flood defences over the next 10 years, in what it claims is the 'largest flooding defence programme' in UK history.
Ministers have given no detail on how or when exactly the funding package will be allocated to local areas. However, in the Spending Review the Government did confirm £4.2bn will be spent on the flooding programme over the next three years (2026/7 to 2028/9), suggesting £3.7bn will be spent up until 2035.
The programme will provide new flood protection such as high-performance flood barriers and nature-based solutions like wetland restoration.
The government predicts that every £1 spent on these new defences will prevent around £8 in economic damage.
Environment secretary Steve Reed said: ‘We inherited crumbling flood defences in their worst condition on record – exposing thousands of homes. Under the Plan for Change, this Government is taking urgent action with the largest flooding programme in our country’s history.’
Philip Duffy, chief executive at the Environment Agency, said: ‘As our changing climate continues to bring more extreme weather to the nation, it’s never been more vital to invest in new flood defences and repair our existing assets.
‘This long-term investment will be welcome news for businesses and homeowners, who have too often faced the destructive nature of flooding. Our priority will continue to be working with the Government and local authorities to ensure as many properties are protected as possible.’
The Government has also launched a consultation over 'a simplified, more transparent approach' for councils to bid for flood defence cash.
Russell Garnett, of built environment consultancy Hollis, commented 'it is critical that this [cash] goes towards maintaining existing defences, not just building new ones'.
'Equally important is making the right changes. You can put up all the barriers you want, but if you don’t fully understand each specific asset and changing flood risk, it’s just money down the drain.'
Image credit: Shutterstock @Wirestock Creators
