Forty projects utilizing natural methods like tree planting and wetland creation to mitigate flood risks will benefit from a £25 million government initiative, as announced by Floods Minister Robbie Moore .
The announcement follows a wide array of submissions to the Environment Agency by community groups, environmental charities, and councils seeking grants, subsequent to the launch of the largest-ever investment in natural flood management schemes in September last year.
The Environment Agency oversaw a review of these applications in collaboration with Defra and Natural England.
Alan Lovell, Chair of the Environment Agency, remarked, “The enthusiasm for Natural Flood Management is inspiring, recognizing its significance not only in mitigating flood risks but also in supporting nature conservation. I am proud of the Environment Agency’s role in spearheading this groundbreaking program. We are eager to collaborate with partners to make natural techniques a mainstream choice for flood protection and to foster more climate-resilient environments.”
Floods Minister Robbie Moore emphasized the importance of leveraging nature’s capabilities in preparing for climate change, contributing to the restoration of the natural environment and protecting residences and businesses.
This underlines our backing of the most extensive investment ever in natural flood management, reflecting the significant interest in these efforts. These projects will supplement conventional defenses, financed by our £5.2 billion flood initiative.
This endeavor forms part of our comprehensive approach to fortify flood resilience, protect communities, promote biodiversity, revive habitats, and conserve the environment for future generations.
Mark Lloyd, CEO of The Rivers Trust, expressed, “We warmly welcome this substantial fund which will not only protect individuals and businesses from flooding but will also create more space for nature, purify pollutants, recharge groundwater aquifers, sequester organic carbon, and provide amenity value for communities.”
This new funding builds upon the £15 million natural flood management pilot program that ran until 2021, resulting in the creation of the equivalent of 1.6 million cubic meters of water storage and reducing flood risk for 15,000 homes.
The Environment Agency is overseeing the new £25 million program, with activities scheduled to continue until March 2027.
Source :- Defra
