A major boost to flood defences across Wessex has been announced, with around 40 schemes set to benefit from over £110 million in government funding. The investment, covering Wiltshire, Somerset, Bristol, Gloucestershire, and Dorset, aims to protect homes and businesses, strengthen local economies, and create jobs.
The funding forms part of the government’s record-breaking £2.65 billion commitment to flood resilience, ensuring communities across the UK are safeguarded from the growing threat of extreme weather. The Environment Agency has now outlined the projects that will receive a share of this year’s funding, helping to either kickstart new schemes or advance those already in progress.
Major Projects Set to Benefit
Several key schemes in the region will receive significant funding, including:
- Wareham Coastal Change (Dorset) – £12.5 million for a compensatory habitat scheme at Arne Moors.
- Bath Flood Defence Scheme – £3.5 million for the replacement of Twerton Gates to better manage river levels and protect 1,186 properties by 2025/26.
- Bridgwater Tidal Barrier – £47.2 million to protect 11,300 homes and 1,500 businesses from tidal flooding. Set to be operational by 2027, the barrier is expected to provide £2 billion in benefits to the local economy.
A Push for Greater Flood Resilience
This funding injection is part of the Government’s Plan for Change, designed to provide security for residents and stimulate economic renewal. Flood defence projects not only protect properties but also help businesses thrive, bringing stability to local economies in an era of increasing climate-related risks.
Caroline Douglass, Executive Director for Flood and Coastal Risk Management at the Environment Agency, said: “Protecting communities from the devastating impact of flooding is our priority. The delivery of these schemes in Wessex will be welcome news for homeowners and businesses who have experienced flooding in the past and may face more extreme weather in the future.”
Floods Minister Emma Hardy added: “I know from firsthand experience how devastating flooding can be. Through our Plan for Change, we are supporting around 40 schemes in Wessex, ensuring residents have the long-term protection they need while boosting local growth and creating new jobs.”
Delivering on Commitments
In addition to the £110 million allocated to Wessex, the government has prioritised a further £140 million to help ensure 29 major flood defence schemes facing cost pressures remain on track. However, with many projects vying for funding, not all schemes can be accommodated within this year’s programme.
Local Environment Agency teams will continue to collaborate with councils and flood action groups to ensure residents in areas still awaiting funding are prepared and that risks are mitigated as much as possible.
As the impact of climate change grows, this investment signals a firm commitment to future-proofing communities and reducing the devastating effects of flooding. For thousands across Wessex, it could mean the difference between security and uncertainty when the next storm arrives.
