The government has launched a consultation to increase local funding for flood and coastal erosion management.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs is seeking views on how to fund such projects, and is welcoming ideas from the public on the issue.

Communities Secretary, Rt Hon James Brokenshire MP, welcomed the news.

He said: "Flooding can be devastating to people and communities, which is why the government is spending £2.6 billion to better protect the country from flooding. But we also need to consider how local funding for flood and coastal erosion management, which can offer vital protection for homes and businesses across local areas, is able to be raised in the future.

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"For example, we have recently received representations about a project that aims to protect 15,000 homes and 2,400 businesses across the Lower Thames area. My Department will continue to engage with the relevant local authorities and I would be willing, in principle, to consider a range of options including additional council tax flexibilities, to identify the best means of ensuring that this scheme can go ahead.

"This consultation opens a discussion on potential future local funding opportunities. I encourage responses from all interested parties to assist the government in considering this important matter."

Other local funding routes that support local flood and coastal erosion management include the Environment Agency levy, the Internal Drainage Boards levy and tax relief for businesses that invest in flood and coastal defences.

(CM)