151 flood schemes delivered in a year

It has been revealed that 151 flood schemes were delivered in the government's first year in power, protecting more than 24,000 homes and businesses.

The government is investing at least £10.5 billion until 2036, the largest flood programme in history. This is expected to benefit more than 890,000 properties, with the construction of new flood schemes and repaired defences.

Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds said: "We inherited crumbling flood defences in their worst condition on record – but in just a year, we have turned the tide and ramped up protection for the public.

"Under the Plan for Change, this government has delivered 151 flood schemes – safeguarding more than 24,000 properties from flooding in communities across the country.

"Our huge £10.5 billion investment into new flood defences will protect more people from the devastation of flooding. It will also help our towns and cities to prosper by driving forward economic growth, creating new jobs and building new homes for future generations."

Caroline Douglass, Executive Director of Floods and Coastal Risk Management at the Environment Agency, said: "Flooding has a devastating impact on communities across the country and will continue to worsen as extreme weather is caused by our changing climate.

"Our teams and partners have worked to deliver another 151 flood schemes that are vitally needed across the country – and are ready to take action to protect people and homes this winter.

"We will continue to work with the government to deliver its long-term flood investment programme, ensuring the most vulnerable communities get the protection they need.