CLA welcomes reforms to flood funding and investment to protect farming communities
£50m investment into internal drainage boards and Farming Recovery Fund payments on way
The CLA has welcomed reforms to flood funding and investment to protect farming communities, as members still wait for payments after last winter's severe weather.
Defra said it is 'bolstering England’s resilience to flooding through additional financial support to farmers and rural communities, as well as refreshing its approach to delivering funding to make sure it works for communities'.
Floods Minister Emma Hardy announced an additional £50m will be distributed to internal drainage boards (IDBs), the public bodies responsible for managing water levels for agricultural and environmental needs in a particular area.
IDBs that submit successful bids will be able to spend the money on projects over the next two years to benefit projects that will improve, repair or replace IDB assets – including flood barriers, embankments and maintenance of watercourses.
The government has also today confirmed payments to farmers impacted by last year’s severe weather through the Farming Recovery Fund. A total of £60m will be distributed to eligible farmers, via recovery payments of between £2,895 and £25,000 to around 13,000 farm businesses. Payments are expected to land in farmers’ accounts from 21 November.
'Sharp end of climate change'
Country Land and Business Association (CLA) President Victoria Vyvyan said:
“Internal drainage boards play a crucial role in water level management across the lowest lying 10% of England, and need this extra support so they can more precisely control water levels to prevent flooding, support food production, and protect the environment.
“Farming is at the sharp end of climate change, which is adding unpredictable business risk, and further reducing confidence across the industry. It is urgent that the government develops long-term, sustainable approaches that allow the sector to adapt to climate change while reducing the risks for downstream communities.
“Delays to the Farming Recovery Fund have added to the difficulties and volatility that farming is already facing. We are pleased the government will make payments swiftly now that the budget has been released.”