Defra responds to Pitt report
In response to the Pitt report published today, Hilary Benn said he welcomed Sir Michael's report and the direction it sets.
"I will deliver a detailed response on behalf of Government that includes a prioritised action plan in the autumn. Before this, I am today taking action to help the country be better prepared to deal with the impacts of flooding.
"Earlier this year I outlined that at least £34.5 million of the £2.15 billion total Government flood and coastal erosion spend over the next three years would be allocated to implement the final recommendations of Sir Michael Pitt's report. Today I can announce that part of this funding will be used to take forward work in several key areas including: assisting the development of surface water management plans in high priority areas, improving reservoir safety and an initial contribution to a major national floods exercise to ensure we are better prepared for the future."
The funding that will be allocated following the announcement today is:
* At least £5 million for the development of Surface Water Management Plans in the highest priority areas;
* At least £1 million to take forward mapping work to improve reservoir safety;
* An initial £250,000 to plan a major national floods exercise to test the new structures and roles put in place to ensure the country is better prepared to deal with future flooding events.
The Government will also develop a Long Term Investment Strategy for flood defence with the Environment Agency.
