The Association of British Insurers has welcomed the government’s commitment to invest £7.9bn over ten years in flood defences. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs said the investment underpinned the largest flood defence programme in history and that every pound spent was expected to prevent around £8 in economic damage.

Hannah Gurga, director general of the ABI, said: “The government's commitment to more funding and a long-term framework to support flood defences is a welcome relief to homes and businesses across the country. Flooding continues to have a devastating impact and we've long said that robust investment in defences and a clear, enduring strategy are vital to real, lasting resilience. Today's announcement marks a crucial step in our race to adapt to a changing climate.

“As the drive to build 1.5 million new homes gets underway, the government needs to carefully consider where and how these homes are built. Every house needs to be able to withstand flooding, extreme heat, stronger winds and subsidence and must not be built in flood-risk areas. Only through sustained investment and proactive planning can we mitigate future risks and safeguard our communities against escalating climate threats.”