16.12.13
One in six homes in England at risk of flooding
New maps published by the Environment Agency will help businesses and communities to protect properties from flooding.
The maps show the areas most at risk; new national scale maps of surface water flooding show the risk affects around three million properties. Models of how rain water flows and pools, as well as local topography, weather patterns and historical data will help local authorities to manage flooding risk.
Flood protection measures include national planning and recruiting teams of flood wardens, as well as infrastructure to protect properties.
Chief executive of the Environment Agency, Dr Paul Leinster, said: “We have used cutting edge technology to map areas at risk of surface water flooding in England. These maps are now amongst the most comprehensive in the world.
“With one in six homes in England at risk of flooding we urge people to check if they are at risk, and sign up to free river and coastal flood warnings, by visiting the Environment Agency website.”
Environment minister Dan Rogerson said: “We understand the damage and the stress that flooding can cause. That’s why we’re spending an unprecedented amount of money on protecting communities from flooding and coastal erosion.
“On top of this we have reached an agreement with the ABI guaranteeing affordable flood insurance for people in high-risk areas both now and in the future.”
Cllr Mike Jones, chair of the LGA’s Environment and Housing Board, said: “Councils have spent more than £110m on schemes designed to reduce the risk of flooding for homes and businesses and have provided the majority of external contributions under the Government's new partnership funding model for flood defences.
“Councils are now using improved technology and advances in understanding flood risk to help protect communities. The new maps will help communities and businesses be more prepared and protect their properties from flooding, the updated information contained in them shows that many people have had their risk reduced because of investment in flood defences. Fewer people are at risk of surface water flooding than it was thought, though it is important to note these are new maps and so this data should be treated with an element of caution.
“Protecting people and businesses from floods is a top priority for councils. Through investment in flood defences, raising awareness of floods and working with communities to prepare for floods councils have protected thousands of properties from flooding and helped households prepare for and recover from floods. Councils also play a vital role after floods, providing emergency housing and help in the aftermath.
“Councils will continue to provide this essential service to protect people from flooding, but with budgets already stretched we will need to find ways to ensure we can continue to invest in building and maintaining the flood defences the country needs.”
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