The Government today announced that it wishes to ‘begin a conversation’ on increasing local funding for flood and coastal erosion management.

This is currently financed by Whitehall funding, as well as the Environment Agency levy, the Internal Drainage Boards levy and tax relief for businesses that invest in flood and coastal defences.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs today said it is seeking views on how to fund flood risk projects at a local level.

Communities secretary James Brokenshire welcomed the launch of this consultation.

‘Flooding can be devastating to people and communities, which is why the Government is spending £2.6bn to better protect the country from flooding,’ he said.

‘But we also need to consider how local funding for flood and coastal erosion management, which can offer vital protection for homes and businesses across local areas, is able to be raised in the future.’

‘My Department will continue to engage with the relevant local authorities and I would be willing, in principle, to consider a range of options including additional council tax flexibilities, to identify the best means of ensuring that this scheme can go ahead,’ he continued.

‘This consultation opens a discussion on potential future local funding opportunities. I encourage responses from all interested parties to assist the Government in considering this important matter.’