Government unveils flood protection grants

The first round of new grants to help people protect their homes against flooding have been announced by environment secretary Hilary Benn.

The £5m Flood Protection Grant Scheme was announced as part of the Government’s response to Sir Michael Pitt’s review of the 2007 floods.

In the first round of funding, £3m has been made available to 25 local authorities to protect up to 593 properties across England offering practical flood protection solutions, including air brick covers and door guards.

Benn said: “While we’re investing in more flood defence schemes, we need to recognise that in some areas, flooding can’t always be prevented. That’s why we’re helping households across England to become more resilient to floods by protecting their homes from the damage and destruction that can be caused.

“People living in areas ranging from Devon to Newcastle and from Lancashire to Lewes who are at risk of flooding will receive grants to help them better protect their homes.

“We had an overwhelming response to the grant scheme from local authorities. This is only the first round of grants and as a result of this interest, we’ll be reviewing the money available for the second round with a view to providing even more funding to protect people’s property.”

In addition to the original £5m, an extra £500,000 has been allocated specifically to help those areas affected by the floods of summer 2007 in addition to the support they have already received. Local authorities whose applications met the criteria but were unsuccessful due to funding restrictions will be automatically considered for the second round of grants.

Environment Agency chief executive Paul Leinster said: “The Flood Protection Grant Scheme will benefit thousands of people by putting in place flood products such as air brick covers and door boards, increasing resilience to over 590 homes from flooding from rivers, sea, surface water and groundwater. The Environment Agency is pleased to have played a part in making the scheme announced by Hilary Benn become a reality, delivering a key Pitt Review recommendation.”

Local authorities will be given flexibility in how they implement their schemes and the initial surveys they commission will ensure they know exactly how best to allocate the funding available.