Gloucestershire businesses welcome flood defence funding
The Government have announced £2.65 billion in funding to build and maintain defences.
Over £2 billion in funding has been announced by the government to protect lives, homes and businesses from flooding.
Up to 1,000 projects across the UK will get funding and the Environment Department said the two-year investment package would see 52,000 properties benefit from new flood defences by March 2026.
It comes at the UK continues to face extreme weather, including storms and heavy rainfall, as a result of climate change.
Recent polling has shown that people see flooding as the most pressing climate impact for the UK.
The government says they blame the Conservatives for letting defences fall into disrepair.
"The role of any Government is to protect its citizens.”
"Under our Plan for Change, we are investing a record £2.65 billion to build and maintenance flood defences to protect lives, homes and businesses from the dangers of flooding."
Edith Cameron runs Cotswold Canoe Hire in Lechlade and has been flooded multiple times in the last year.
She told Greatest Hits Radio that she welcomes the funding but that there needs to be more action from local authorities.
“It’s a really positive step forward but businesses along the Thames will still remain vulnerable”.
She added: “I think local targeted consultation is the key to ensure that we all receive the protection that we need”.
Environment Agency chairman Alan Lovell said: "With this new funding, we will work closely with the Government to deliver the vital projects that are needed across the country, ensuring our investment goes to those communities who need it the most."