‘Once in a century’ floods becoming the norm, warns Dorset Council leader
Dorset’s Council leader Nick Ireland has announced a push for major new investment to protect communities from flooding
Last updated 9th Feb 2026
Dorset Council has pledged further investment and long-term action to protect communities from flooding, as the county continues to deal with the impacts of increasingly extreme weather.
The Leader of Dorset Council, Cllr Nick Ireland said recent flooding across the county is being driven by climate change, warning that events once described as “once in a century” are now becoming far more frequent.
Dorset, as a largely rural and coastal county, is particularly vulnerable and face growing risks from erosion, flooding and damage to infrastructure.
Rising global temperatures are bringing heavier rainfall and more intense storms, causing groundwater levels to reach “historic highs” this week.
Cllr Ireland warned that more rain is forecast in the coming weeks but assures residents that the council has already begun developing a Climate Adaptation Strategy to help plan for these challenges and protect residents as conditions continue to change.
“Our green spaces are essential not just for health and wellbeing, but for flood protection, water quality and climate resilience,” he said, adding that restoring and expanding nature can help communities better withstand future shocks.
The council leader acknowledged that significant investment will be required to repair damage, strengthen infrastructure and prepare for what lies ahead.
He confirmed that officers have been asked to bring forward proposals for “substantial additional capital investment” to tackle areas that suffer repeated flooding.
Cllr Ireland said: “There’s no hiding the fact that the road ahead will require major investment.
"This is about recognising both the urgent repairs required right now, and the bigger task of adapting our infrastructure so Dorset is better prepared for the extreme weather we know we’ll continue to face.”
Highways teams have also been tasked with exploring increased frontline resources, particularly for clearing gullies and dealing with debris left behind by recent floods.
Cllr Ireland said the response must balance urgent repairs with long-term adaptation, working closely with town and parish councils and other partners.
“Dorset is a strong, resilient place,” he said. “We will get through this the same way we always do - by supporting one another.”