Flood defence scheme announced

Plans have been announced to help people who are at high risk of having their homes flooded to protect their property.

The £5 million Government initiative could see householders given grants towards the cost of flood protection measures and a free flood survey, which could both help with finding a home insurance provider.

The scheme is aimed at homeowners who are threatened with flooding but are not protected by community flood defences, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said.

Measures to prevent floodwater entering homes could include temporary door guards, while water-resistant plaster and raising electrics from floor level can reduce the costs of repairs if a house is flooded.

The Government has launched a consultation into the scheme, after Environment Secretary Hilary Benn outlined the proposals during a trip to a pilot project in Leeds last month.

Environment Minister Phil Woolas said: "Measures such as door-boards, air-brick covers, water-proof walls and floors and raised electrics can all reduce any potential damage caused by floodwater.

Research suggests that these measures can also cut the financial costs of flooding by 50% to 80%. They lessen the disruption and distress and can halve the amount of time it takes to dry out and repair a property."

Mr Woolas said a package of measures for the average semi-detached house could cost £4,000 to £5,000 but could prevent flood damage of up to tens of thousands of pounds.

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