Devon and Cornwall homes to gain enhanced flood protection
£1.4 billion investment announced for flood schemes across England
Hundreds of homes and businesses across Devon and Cornwall are set to receive enhanced flood protection through 70 new and upgraded schemes announced by the Environment Agency.
This initiative is part of a significant £1.4 billion national investment in flood defences planned for the financial year 2026/27.
A record investment of at least £10.5 billion is set to occur from 2024 to 2036 throughout England to shield homes, businesses, and essential infrastructure from flooding.
Notably, Paignton will benefit from a £7.17 million investment in its Seafront Coastal Defence Scheme in the upcoming financial year.
This initiative aims to protect 210 properties and businesses from the increasing risk of flooding caused by rising sea levels.
Without these measures, more properties in Paignton and Preston could be vulnerable over the next 50 years.
Torbay Council will promote the scheme, funded by the national programme, to deliver robust sea defences and enhance promenades.
Improvements in seating, pathways, and planting will create more appealing and accessible seafronts, encouraging visitor engagement and supporting the local economy.
Floods Minister Emma Hardy highlighted the devastating impact of flooding and emphasized the importance of the investment in protecting thousands of properties and businesses nationwide.
Caroline Douglass from the Environment Agency underscored the collaborative effort with local authorities to deliver over 600 flood defence schemes with engineering and nature-based solutions.
Ben Johnstone, Area Flood and Coastal Risk Manager for Devon and Cornwall, praised the Paignton initiative for providing expansive community benefits alongside property protection.