William Eichler 17 March 2026

£1.4bn flood defence funding announced

£1.4bn flood defence funding announced image
Flooding © Jason Salmon / Shutterstock.com.

The Government has announced a £1.4bn investment in flood defences to better protect homes, businesses and infrastructure across England.

The funding will support more than 600 projects, including new flood barriers, strengthened embankments and nature-based schemes designed to reduce water flow into vulnerable communities.

The programme aims to safeguard tens of thousands of properties, forming part of a wider £10.5bn commitment to flood protection between 2024 and 2036.

An additional £260m will be used to repair and maintain existing defences, including those damaged by recent storms, ensuring they remain effective during extreme weather events.

Ministers say the investment will not only protect communities but also boost economic resilience, with every £1 spent expected to prevent around £8 in potential damage.

LocalGov Weekly Round Up image

LocalGov Weekly Round Up

William Eichler, editor of LocalGov.co.uk, reflects on the stories that captured readers’ attention this week.
SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Community Learning and Skills Tutor - Employability, Health and Care - WMF2801e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£34,434- £35,412
The qualifications offered include a range of short Awards at Entry Level, and Certificates at Levels 1 and 2. Penrith, Cumbria
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Principal Planning Officer - WMF2793e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£47,181- £48,226
Wouldyou like to live and work in one of the most beautiful parts of the country? Kendal, Cumbria
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Programme Manager - Corporate Property - WMF2797e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£56,883- £59,198
Westmorland and Furness Council is proud to serve one of the most beautiful regions in the UK. Kendal, Cumbria
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Customer Services Adviser

Mansfield District Council
£14,628 - £15,592 per annum
We’re looking for a friendly, professional and motivated Customer Services Advisor Mansfield, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Mansfield District Council

Head of Sport & Leisure - Tendring District Council

Essex County Council
£60119 - £67851 per annum
Head of Sport & Leisure - Tendring District CouncilTendringPermanent, Full Time£60,119- £67,851 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council
Linkedin Banner