Record funding for flood defences in England as climate crisis worsens risks

Billions to be spent over six years with significant sums for regions hit hard in recent years

The government will spend a record £5.2bn on reducing flooding in England over the next six years, as the climate crisis increases the risk to homes and businesses.

The Environment Agency will spend £860m next year to support more than 1,000 schemes, with significant funds for Yorkshire and the Humber and the north-west, regions that have been hit hard in recent years.