The UK government plans to spend £8 billion on flood defences over the next 10 years. This is part of a bigger plan to upgrade the country’s infrastructure.
The Labour government says the money will help protect homes, small businesses, and key services from rising flood risks.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s team announced the plan on Monday. Environment Minister Steve Reed said many flood defences are old and failing. He blamed the past government for leaving them in poor shape.
“We’re acting fast with the biggest flood defence project in UK history,” Reed said.
A recent report shows that more than 6 million properties in England face flood risk. That number could rise to over 8 million by 2050.
The report also warns that much of the country’s best farmland, roads, and railways are at risk too.
In 2022, some areas recorded temperatures of 40°C. Experts say storms and extreme heat are becoming more common because of climate change.
This £8 billion plan is the government’s way of preparing for that future.
