House of Commons · Westminster Hall
24 June 2025 · 4 other contributors · 4,280 words
Opened by Toby Perkins Lab Chesterfield
Responding minister: Emma Hardy
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Toby Perkins raised concerns about flood defences: chesterfield in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
The government should invest more in flood defence maintenance and construction, particularly for areas at high risk such as Tapton Terrace in Chesterfield, where the Environment Agency has deemed it cheaper to buy homes than protect them.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
Flooding is a critical issue for constituents in Chesterfield and across the UK, with over 6 million people living in flood-risk areas. The economic cost of flooding can be enormous; the 2015-2016 winter floods cost £1.6 billion to the national economy. Climate change is projected to increase the risk and costs associated with flooding.
Highlights a real problem across all of the United Kingdom and suggests a need for a flood strategy encompassing all regions.
Proposes compulsory education on building flood plans in schools to improve community resilience during floods.
The MP noted similar flooding issues in her constituency, bordering Chesterfield. She raised concerns about the role of riparian owners and the importance of involving them more actively in flood management.
Inherited flood defences in their worst state, with only 92% of assets at required condition. Announced £7.9 billion funding, largest flooding programme ever, part of landmark infrastructure strategy. Introduced changes including simplified funding formula, first £3 million fully funded, then 90% Government and 10% partnership funding. Urged public to respond to consultation for prioritising Government money in flood protection.
Government Response
Emma HardyThe Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
The Minister expresses understanding about the anxieties felt by constituents in flood-prone areas and acknowledges the importance of natural flood management. She updates on recent projects such as refurbishing a section of the River Rother’s floodwall post-Storm Babet, with £75,000 allocated for improvements at the Avenue storage reservoir. The EA is also investigating bridge removals or raising along the Rivers Hipper and Rother to improve flow and reduce blockages. She mentions securing around £400,000 towards the River Hipper flood alleviation scheme, protecting over 200 homes and businesses. For future projects, the proposed change to the funding formula includes full Government funding for the first £3 million of projects, easing natural flood management initiatives. The consultation is open on prioritisation criteria and partnership funding requirements.