THE flooding that happened in February now seems a long time away, but it is certain that more floods will occur in the future, if not this winter then in another.
Clearly, global warming is causing an increased risk of flooding around the world.
Unfortunately, local councils do not have the resources to carry out significant flood protection works; and funding for such works is dependent on central government funding that is provided through the Environment Agency.
In March 2020, the government announced a doubling of their budget from £2.6bn to £5.2bn. Funding is distributed through a complex formula that takes account of household benefits especially in deprived areas; other benefits to businesses, agriculture, and infrastructure; and environmental benefits. The problem is that the formula relies heavily on property and land values that means that schemes in low value areas such as Cumbria are unlikely to be approved.
Also, deprivation is measured using the ‘Index of Multiple Deprivation’ that is good at identifying deprivation in urban areas but often fails to recognise deprivation in rural areas.
The Local Government Association that represents all local councils in England is arguing for change. Their Environment spokesman, Councillor David Renard has said that: “Funding for flood defences needs to be devolved to local areas to ensure money is directed towards projects that best reflect local needs, which includes protecting key roads and bridges to keep local residents and businesses moving."
I think this is a matter to which councils and MPs in Cumbria should turn their attention.
Adrian Waite
Prospective Liberal-Democrat County Council candidate for Kirkby Stephen
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