The Environment Agency’s £50 million scheme to protect thousands of homes from flooding by the autumn has been abruptly pulled, leaving many homeowners in limbo. Businesses that spent tens of thousands of pounds preparing bids for the scheme are reeling from the sudden decision. According to Simon Crowther, a civil engineer and chartered water and environmental manager, his company had spent tens of thousands of pounds over the past six weeks preparing its bid. “I feel I have to speak out about this,” Crowther said. “The actions of the Environment Agency will delay the protection of thousands of homes. Flood victims do not have a voice and they will not know that these protections were coming or that they are now being delayed because of the actions of the EA.”
The Environment Agency had received numerous tenders for the scheme, which aimed to provide homes in England with flood defences including flood doors, non-return valves, and waterproof floors. However, the agency has decided to discontinue the current procurement process due to a lack of competent tenders that provided value for money. This decision has left many small businesses, which had spent thousands of pounds on their bids, feeling frustrated and disappointed.
Mary Dhonau OBE, who was awarded an OBE for her work on reducing flood risk, believes that the Environment Agency has made a grave mistake. “The property flood resilience industry is expected to go through the whole process again,” she said. “I have explained the state of the marketplace. Over the last few days, I’ve talked to quite a few companies. One of them has held a crisis meeting and wonder if it’s worth staying in the PFR industry, another isn’t going to bother again and is changing direction. All of the companies are reeling with shock and disbelief.”
£50 Million Flood Protection Scheme Abruptly PulledThe cancellation of the scheme comes at a particularly concerning time, as areas of the south-west were hit by flash flooding after heavy rain this week. In Somerset, homes were evacuated and a major incident was declared. The Environment Agency has spent two years preparing for the scheme, and the postponement of the project has left many wondering what the future holds for flood protection in England.
The Environment Agency has assured that it still intends to go ahead with the flood defence project and will be in touch with those interested “as soon as possible.” The agency has also stated that it is developing a new framework for suppliers, which it aims to award by the end of the year. However, some have expressed concerns about the lack of staff and resources available to manage flash flood risks in many local authorities.
As the country struggles to come to terms with the implications of climate change, the cancellation of this scheme is a significant setback for those affected by flooding. The Environment Agency needs to re-evaluate its priorities and ensure that it is providing the necessary support to those at risk of flooding. Until then, thousands of homeowners will continue to be exposed to the dangers of flooding, and the prospect of enjoying a safe and secure home will remain an elusive dream.