Summary
Thousands of flood defences in England are not in the condition needed to protect against floods, as Storm Bram causes heavy rain and wind. Almost 9% of these defences inspected are not up to standard, posing a risk to regions like North Tyneside and parts of Greater London.
Key Facts
- Thousands of flood defences in England are below the required condition.
- About 6,498 high consequence defences are not working properly due to damage or overgrowth.
- As of October 20, nearly 9% of inspected flood defences are below standard.
- Areas like North Tyneside and Greater London have significant numbers of underperforming defences.
- Storm Bram brought strong winds and rain, worsening flood risks with many warnings issued.
- The UK government plans to invest £10.5 billion in flood defences until 2036.
- Flood defences include walls, embankments, storm drains, and natural high grounds.
- The Environment Agency aims for only 2% of high-risk defences to be below target condition in the future.
