As I see it: Sherwood Forest MP Michelle Welsh on the Government’s £2.65 billion investment in flood defences

As the Member of Parliament for Sherwood Forest, I have had the privilege of meeting with residents across our communities, including Bilsthorpe, Blidworth, Epperstone, Edwinstowe, and Lowdham, writes Shewood Forest MP Michelle Welsh.

One issue has been raised time and time again: flooding.

Too many homes, businesses, and local services have suffered due to rising waters, and tackling this issue is one of my top priorities in Westminster.

That’s why I welcome the Labour Government’s announcement of a record £2.65 billion investment in flood defences. This is a vital commitment that will better protect 52,000 properties across the UK by March 2026 and ensure a further 14,500 properties maintain their expected level of protection.

After years of neglect, this funding will make a tangible difference to communities like ours, where flood risk is a constant concern.

For too long, the state of our flood defences has been allowed to deteriorate, leaving too many homes and businesses vulnerable. The Labour Government has inherited flood assets in their poorest condition on record, with 3,000 of the Environment Agency’s 38,000 high-consequence assets below the required standard.

We cannot afford to ignore this problem any longer. This investment will not only build new defences but also maintain and repair existing infrastructure, ensuring a more resilient future for areas at risk.

The establishment of the Flood Resilience Taskforce is also a significant step forward. Led by Floods Minister Emma Hardy, this taskforce is bringing together experts from the Met Office, the National Farmers Union, Local Resilience Forums, and other key organisations to ensure that we learn lessons from recent storms and improve our response to future threats.

With climate change increasing the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, this work has never been more urgent.

Here in Sherwood Forest, I will continue to push for our fair share of funding to protect our communities. I have spoken with residents whose homes have been flooded multiple times and business owners who live in fear of the next storm. This level of stress and uncertainty is unacceptable, and I am committed to working with local councils, the Environment Agency, and government ministers to deliver real solutions.

If you have been affected by flooding or have concerns about flood defences in your area, please do not hesitate to get in touch. Your voices matter, and I will continue to fight for the investment and support that our communities need.