Steve Reed Visits Ipswich Flood Defence Site

Minister Reed visited Ipswich to assess flood defenses. He highlighted a £2.65 billion plan to protect homes and businesses.

The government plans to spend more on flood protection. They will commit £2.65 billion to this cause. This investment will support building new defenses and help maintain existing ones.

This funding aims to protect homes and businesses, with around 66,000 properties expected to receive better protection. The government plans to complete this by March 2026, with new defenses set to benefit about 52,000 properties.

Some funds will be allocated to fix defenses needing repair. This maintenance will cover approximately 14,500 properties. Mr. Reed announced this plan alongside Ipswich MP Jack Abbott after meeting with officials from the Environment Agency.

The Ipswich Flood Barrier, a £67 million project opened in 2021, protects 2,000 properties. It is situated on the New Cut, and the plan also provides protection for farmland. Recent storms have caused damage to farms.

The investment aims to safeguard farm profits. Mr. Reed highlighted the storm damage experienced this winter. He emphasized the government’s role in citizen protection and their commitment to investing in measures to protect people from floods.

Image Credits and Reference: https://www.ipswichstar.co.uk/news/24913204.cabinet-minister-steve-reed-ipswich-see-flood-defence/?ref=rss