Flooding

The hon. Member highlights that resources for the Environment Agency have been cut over the last decade and calls for long-term funding to address flooding.

The hon. Member mentions a natural flood management project in his constituency involving flood diversion, wildlife creation, habitat, leaky dams, which has proven valuable in protecting local villages.

The hon. Member asks how the inquiry will work with existing section 19 inquiries that are already underway in his area and elsewhere to determine the same issues.

The hon. Member argues against another review, suggesting it would cost more money and waste time when immediate action is needed instead.

The hon. Member discusses the effectiveness of Flood Re since 2016 in making flood insurance available to many properties at reduced prices.

Mr. Eustice moved an amendment acknowledging improvements in local and national response through Local Resilience Forums, the Cross Review, and National Flood Response Centre establishment. He stated that extreme weather events are becoming more frequent necessitating further investment in flood defence infrastructure. Mr. Eustice highlighted recent storms causing record-breaking rainfall and flooding over 3,400 properties this February.

Mr. Redwood agreed that too much building on floodplains is not helpful and advocated for stricter future restrictions to deal with the backlog problem.

Mr. Elmore inquired if the Secretary of State would confirm that the UK Government will fund coal tip safety assessments to reassure residents living near unstable tips, including those in his constituency and others represented by three Members.

Mr. Bryant clarified that this issue is about ensuring the UK Government's responsibility to ensure the safety of residents living near unstable coal tips, not about financial requests from the Welsh Assembly.

Thanks the Secretary of State for discussing his constituency. Acknowledges Tony Blair's contribution to demountable barriers but highlights issues at Beales Corner in Bewdley where temporary barriers failed during Storm Dennis.

Calls for a strategic review of flood defences considering future climate change impacts and the need to adapt land use management, rainwater capture systems, and urban infrastructure. Questions the adequacy of current demountable barriers.

Acknowledges effective implementation of Pitt review recommendations in Gloucester, noting that no homes flooded due to the work by Environment Agency and local councils.

Supports the motion for an independent review of flooding due to its constructive approach. Acknowledges the devastating impact of recent storms on communities, mentioning both successful flood mitigation measures and areas still at risk. Emphasises the challenges in scoping, funding, and delivering flood defence schemes.

Asks about the lack of staff at the Environment Agency to bring forward flood defence schemes. Questions whether funding should also support expanding the agency's team rather than just physical infrastructure.

Acknowledges concerns about delays in delivering flood defence projects due to staff shortages at the Environment Agency. Emphasises a preventive approach to sustainable flood management, suggesting broader priorities such as employment, cultural value, and agricultural land should be considered. Advocates for innovative upstream aggradation and appropriate land management strategies.

Describes his constituency as the most flood-prone in the UK, highlighting recent flooding incidents. Pays tribute to constituents' response during a severe deluge, praising local volunteers, businesses, town councils, emergency services, and Environment Agency staff for their efforts.

Acknowledges successes in flood prevention efforts in his area, noting that the Carlisle region managed to avoid flooding this year due to the collaborative work of the Environment Agency, local councils, and voluntary sectors.

Mr Percy expressed concern over the effectiveness of existing flood defence systems, particularly in his constituency which has been severely affected by recent flooding. He agreed with some points made by the shadow Secretary of State but criticised attempts to make political points regarding ongoing issues. Mr Percy called for immediate and future funding for flood defences, highlighting a need for financial support outside of normal rules following significant flooding events. He also emphasised the importance of reviewing section 19 inquiries' funding challenges, and advocated for adjustments in the national funding formula considering his area's unique circumstances.

Mr Reynolds discussed the geographical impact of flooding on his constituency, noting severe events have left communities devastated. He praised efforts since 2016 but argued these investments were insufficient to prevent future occurrences. Mr Reynolds highlighted austerity measures as a contributing factor to inadequate resourcing and planning enforcement issues regarding new developments increasing flood risk. Furthermore, he raised concerns over the legal responsibility for waterways management, suggesting unclear ownership of culverts could unfairly burden residents with substantial costs.

Ms Hobhouse intervened to emphasise the importance of peatland restoration in mitigating climate change and flood risk. She questioned the impact of activities like grouse shooting on these efforts, suggesting they needed addressing.

Mr Robertson highlighted the aftermath of a 2007 flooding event in his constituency that resulted in fatalities and displacement. He advocated for more regular maintenance of drainage systems and considered revisiting policies regarding river dredging as a potential mitigation measure.

Parish asked if similar dredging improvements to the River Parrett could be applied to the River Severn.

Kawczynski agreed with Robertson on managing the entire length of the River Severn from his constituency down to Tewkesbury, emphasising a need for holistic management.

Graham suggested building more capacity in Welsh hills and transporting water by pipe as a solution, which Robertson supported but noted that it was not just the local rainfall causing problems.

Peacock discussed severe flooding in Barnsley and called for immediate financial support and investment in flood defences, mentioning community resilience and efforts to rebuild after storms. She also highlighted the need for sustained investment to protect from future extreme weather events.

Whittaker criticised both opposition and government approaches as lacking effectiveness, suggesting that existing information is sufficient to address flood issues without further reviews. He also noted the delay in governmental support after floods compared to 2015.

Percy agreed with Whittaker, emphasising the need for implementation of flood catchment management plans first launched in 2007 which have not yet reached full fruition. He noted that such plans are needed to inform future funding periods.

Emphasises the need for an off-the-shelf flood support package that is automatically triggered after devastating flooding, urging the Secretary of State to elevate Calder Valley to tier 1 status or consider a series of pilot schemes for catchment areas across the country. Requests annual funding for wider catchment plans and local authority management. Criticises the delay in implementing flood defence projects and asks for pressure on the Environment Agency to expedite these schemes.

Highlights the severe impact of recent flooding in Rhondda Cynon Taf, where dozens of homes were flooded and many families lost everything due to lack of insurance. Expresses concern over the significant damage to infrastructure including bridges and culverts requiring rebuilding at a cost of £44 million. Urges for additional funding from the Welsh Government and calls on the Minister to match funds raised through crowdfunding efforts. Celebrates the community's spirit in responding to the disaster.

Pays tribute to her predecessor and highlights the importance of Scunthorpe's steel industry, its heritage, and the community's resilience. She also mentions plans to support local businesses, infrastructure improvements, healthcare services, and flood resilience projects.

Offers a brief humorous intervention in support of Holly Mumby-Croft, referring to the previous speaker's comments about her constituency neighbour.

Highlights the ongoing issues with flood protection in Kirkstall and Burley, Leeds. She criticises the Government for failing to deliver on their promises regarding flood defences and insurance schemes, especially for small businesses.

Joined colleagues in praising the work of emergency services and flood responses. Emphasised the need for the River Thames scheme to protect homes, businesses, and land from flooding, especially after the 2014 floods. Called for investment in flood defences, highlighting that prevention is better than cure.

Stressed the need to turn focus into action and address issues caused by climate change leading to wetter winters and more frequent flooding. Called for a whole catchment approach, upper catchment management, and efficient use of resources. Criticised current procurement mechanisms as inefficient and costly.

Reminded the House of previous Labour Government's inaction during floods in 2000. Highlighted improvements made since then, including investment in Leigh flood storage area and work done by EA upstream in Penshurst to protect Tonbridge and west Kent from flooding.

Calls for VAT relief on private flood protection measures. Praises the efforts of flood wardens in Tonbridge, particularly Carl Lewis. Criticises property management companies and house builders for failing to protect residents during floods.

Describes the devastating impact of recent storms on Pontypridd and Rhondda Cynon Taf. Highlights unprecedented rainfall levels and record-breaking river water levels. Criticises the UK Government for not providing sufficient financial support to communities affected by flooding.

Details the damage caused in his constituency of Herefordshire, including £10 million worth of damage and 110 properties flooded. Highlights the efforts of local emergency services during the floods. Stresses the need for better flood defences.

Asks Bill Wiggin to comment on the adequacy of the Bellwin scheme in covering costs and demands following flooding in his constituency, which has faced similar issues to Herefordshire.

Responds to Daniel Kawczynski's concerns by suggesting that local authorities need more training on how to manage the Bellwin scheme effectively. Calls for better communication from the Department managing this scheme with affected councils.

Points out inefficiencies in the Bellwin scheme, noting that Calderdale has to spend £750,000 before receiving only £50,000 back. Calls for a review of the scheme.

Agrees with earlier statements about the Bellwin scheme, emphasising the need for local authorities to understand and improve it. Describes severe flooding in Fownhope, where a road collapsed into a resident's garden, disrupting businesses and residents' lives. Criticises local council delays in repairing flooded roads, calling for better training on flood defences and quicker repair times. Praises emergency services but criticises lack of support from the Environment Agency during floods. Emphasises the importance of managing waterways properly to protect communities repeatedly affected by flooding.

Describes severe flooding in Prestolee and Stoneclough due to River Irwell, affecting 57 properties in 2015. Residents remain anxious due to ongoing flood alerts, with many unable to remortgage or sell their homes. Urges the Government to fund £3-4 million for flood walls to prevent future flooding; has collected over 2,800 signatures on a petition urging this funding. Calls for long-term solutions as climate change will cause more rain and flooding, advocating for immediate funding to rebuild areas and regenerate the economy.

Describes severe flooding in Worksop in 2007 and 2019, highlighting evacuation of residents and closure of the town library. Criticises lack of long-term flood defence planning; calls for schemes like Retford beck dredging to be prioritised. Welcomes Government's £2.6 billion investment but asks for urgent consideration of schemes in Bassetlaw.

The insurance industry highlights that premiums and excesses for flood protection are extremely high, making it challenging for small businesses to afford the necessary coverage. For instance, a 35-seat café faces an excess of £65,000.

I support the hon. Member's intervention regarding high insurance premiums and excesses for flood protection. Additionally, I propose a Yorkshire-wide flooding summit to address resilience issues and ensure comprehensive long-term planning.

Commending the efforts of various organisations during floods, including volunteer groups, emergency services, councils, and the Environment Agency. Highlighting the need for a review of flood funding criteria and supporting small businesses under Flood Re scheme improvements. Emphasising mental health support for constituents affected by flooding.

Hull tops the list of local authorities with nearly 20,000 homes at high risk of flooding. The city council responded by developing plans to retain water before it runs into the city, making the area the first in the UK to agree officially binding rules regarding sustainable drainage requirements. However, this will not solve all problems and the proposal for a state-of-the-art national flood resilience centre should be advanced. I urge the Minister to look into the Lagoon Hull project that would protect against flooding while also benefitting the local economy.

My constituency has been affected by 110 flooded homes, 55 businesses, and 200 evacuations. The Environment Agency and Severn Area Rescue Association have worked tirelessly to assist during this crisis. Bewdley epitomises the issue of flood defence economics where one side is protected but not the other due to the perceived value of properties.

Farmers have been unable to clear ditches and spread contents on fields because it is deemed a waste product by EU regulations. We should use Brexit as an opportunity to reassess this matter, and learn from other constituencies that have flood control centres.

Raises concerns about lack of full Government funding for large-scale coastal defence schemes, calls for recognition of the extra costs incurred to protect heritage sites from flooding, and questions the role of local enterprise partnerships in providing funds. Emphasises the need for a flood summit to address these issues.

Highlights community spirit during recent floods, especially from Merthyr Tydfil football club offering free meals to emergency service workers. Criticises the impact of austerity on local authorities. Asks for an update on support levels for Wales post-flooding and assurance that funding will be available for remedial works at coal tips. Stresses the importance of a united Union in providing support during such crises.

Describes the heavy impact of recent floods on her constituency, including considerable costs and infrastructure damage. Emphasises the need for mental health support for those affected. Criticises austerity policies and welfare reforms that disproportionately affect Wales. Urges action on climate change to prevent future flooding.

I support the motion due to the scale of flood challenges, including warmer winters and increased risk from soft rock catchments. I call for an independent inquiry into recent flooding incidents and urge better protection for Reading's areas like Caversham and Woodley.

The debate highlights the human impact of flooding, including anxiety and uncertainty. I stress the need for environmental mitigation and infrastructure investment against climate change risks, praising Welsh Labour's swift response while questioning adequate funding provision by the UK Government.

The resilience grant should allow flexibility for repeated flood victims to replace damaged measures. Tier 1 status and matching funds are needed for ongoing mitigation and emotional support in areas like Calderdale. Reservoirs could mitigate risk effectively.

In my constituency, flood risks have been exacerbated by budget cuts. We need urgent funding for necessary schemes as well as long-term prevention strategies. Insurance premiums are unaffordable, and only minimal sandbags were provided despite business efforts.

The Labour Party member calls for a complete UK-wide review to learn lessons from past events, prepare for future potential flooding, and protect communities from further devastation. She criticises the Prime Minister's absence during the crisis and highlights the impact of austerity on environmental efforts.

Asks a brief question but is not given time to speak due to lack of time.

Acknowledges the impact of flooding on all constituencies and pays tribute to responders, emergency services, local authorities, and charities for their efforts during the crisis. She also notes her personal experience with flooding in Somerset.

Requests to give way but no position is provided in the given text.

Ms Pow reiterated the unprecedented nature of recent flooding, highlighting February 2020 as the wettest month on record in England and across the UK. She emphasised that despite the severity of the situation, flood defences have been effective, protecting over 128,000 properties this winter. Digital services such as online flood warnings have seen significant use, with 3.1 million hits to date. Ms Pow also mentioned ongoing efforts regarding coal tips in Wales and outlined the Government's swift response through the activation of the Bellwin scheme and the Flood Recovery Network. She stressed the need for constant review and improvement based on feedback from local authorities and MPs.

Mr Bryant briefly mentioned the coal tip issue in Rhondda, indicating that it was a live flooding incident requiring attention. However, his contribution was brief and did not provide extensive detail beyond referencing the topic.