The Government has committed £50 million to safeguard Somerset’s residents, farmers, and businesses against escalating flood risks. This significant funding will enable Somerset Council to implement various flood protection initiatives, including enhanced defence schemes, nature-based solutions, upgraded water infrastructure, and improved waterway maintenance.
This announcement follows a record-breaking wet January—the second wettest on record for the county—when rainfall doubled the average levels, leading Somerset Council to declare a major incident as flooding persisted into February. The investment aims to ease pressure on emergency services while helping communities build resilience against future flooding intensified by climate change.
Somerset, a vital agricultural region, will benefit from measures designed to support farmers in coping with extreme weather conditions. Protecting rural livelihoods is crucial to preventing flood-related disruptions that could drive up food prices.
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Floods Minister Emma Hardy emphasized the importance of long-term solutions: “Somerset has faced the full force of extreme weather this year, which I witnessed firsthand during my visit. The communities here deserve more than a temporary fix, which is why this Government is investing.”
The funding represents a safeguarded future for homes, farms, and livelihoods across Somerset. Council leader Bill Revans expressed gratitude for the Government’s responsiveness and highlighted the urgent need for adaptation: “We are grateful to the minister for visiting during the major incident and engaging with us. This vital investment is a step toward securing Somerset’s future. This winter has underscored how vulnerable our unique environment is to climate change impacts, making it clear that we must equip our communities to adapt and become more resilient.”