Council welcomes extra funding for flood defence

£120 million in new funding will speed up the delivery of flood defences that could protect up to 60,000 homes and deliver up to £1 billion of economic benefits, the Chief Secretary to the Treasury announced on Friday (30th November).

In response, Councillor John Hart, Leader of Devon County Council said:

“I welcome this positive announcement and hope that some of the funding will come to Devon. It does show that the Government is listening and has responded fast. It is vital that Exeter flood defences are improved, not only for the protection of thousands of homes but also for the local economy.  That’s why Devon County Council has already pledged £3 million to this scheme which the Environment Agency says is one of the top four priorities in the UK.

“The widespread flooding across Devon has demonstrated that vital investment is needed in our flood defences in the county more than ever, and the Prime Minister and Environment Secretary have been able to see that for themselves during their visits. I hope we will now hear the Chancellor confirm the go ahead in his Autumn Statement and I am writing to George Osborne urging him to provide funding for flood hit communities across the County.”

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Chairman of the Devon Flood Risk Management Partnership and Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member responsible for Highways and Transportation, said “Today’s announcement by the Treasury is very good news not only for Exeter, but also for the Devon economy.

"Once again we’ve seen how vulnerable our rail and road network is to the impact of climate change.  Exeter is the vital junction and when that is disrupted it hits the whole region. The Treasury’s announcement of £60 million will be targeted at areas where flood defences can unlock new opportunities for development and growth is also excellent news and I hope that Devon will also benefit from this important funding.”