Flooding: Bedfordshire

Opened the debate

I raised the issue of severe flooding in September that devastated homes, farms and businesses in my constituency. Constituents reported extensive damage from water ingress, loss of property, and financial strain on local businesses and farmers. The impact included blocked drains leading to surface water floods and infrastructure failures such as the closure of A421 for weeks due to massive water collection. I urged the government to improve maintenance schedules, introduce statutory duties on clearing drains regularly, and support councils with funding for recovery and resilience improvements. Additionally, I called for reforms in planning system and development policies to ensure sustainable growth that mitigates flood risks.

Government Response

Minister Emma Hardy acknowledged the devastating impact of flooding on people’s lives, including mental health effects. She discussed efforts by the Environment Agency to use drone flights for assessing flooded areas, thanking responders and volunteers for their work during the emergency response. She committed to reviewing the formula used in assessing where flood defences are built with the National Farmers Union and promised meetings with Members of Parliament about internal drainage boards. The Minister highlighted that flooding is one of DEFRA’s key priorities, mentioning additional funding for urgent repair of critical flood defences and mobile resources like pumps and portable barriers. She also emphasised the importance of sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS) and natural flood management solutions to combat future risks. Additionally, she outlined ongoing government efforts through taskforces and meetings to enhance national resilience against flooding.