Is the Government doing enough to protect communities from flooding? MPs hear first-hand experiences

Monday 19 May 2025, 16.30, Committee Room 8, Palace of Westminster

What impact does flooding have on local communities and is the Government doing enough to keep residents and their livelihoods safe? On Monday 19 May, the Environmental Audit Committee continues its inquiry on flooding resilience in England.

Flooding events can devastate communities, and they appear to be increasing in both severity and number. Just in January this year, nearly 200 flood warnings were issued across England.

The Government has pledged to invest £2.65bn in flood defences over two years, but some have raised concerns about potential cuts to this budget in the forthcoming Spending Review, undermining confidence from business and local authorities in being prepared to deal with floods.

MPs will hear the first-hand experiences of small business owners and community leaders exposed to flooding. MPs are likely to ask what toll flooding has taken on them financially and emotionally and whether the support available goes far enough to help them rebuild their livelihoods.

The Committee will also hear from the authorities tasked with responding to floods. MPs are likely to question how effectively agencies collaborate on flood risk measures, and whether they are making the best use of local knowledge and community groups.  

Witnesses

From 16.30:

• Siobhan Conner, Chair, Shrewsbury Flood Action Group
• Graham French, Owner, Kingfisher Café at Walcott
• Mary Long-Dhonau OBE, Property Flood Resilience Consultant, FloodMary.com

From 17.30:

• Julie Foley OBE, Director, Strategy & National Adaptation, Environment Agency
• Tracey Garrett, Chief Executive Officer, National Flood Forum
• Ian Moodie, Technical Manager, Association of Drainage Authorities