Council announces £800,000 boost for flood defences

The area was recently put under a flood risk after Storm Claudia

A council has announced additional funding for a flood defence project.

Wiltshire Council approved an increase in Community Infrastructure Levy funding for the Chippenham Avon Project from £1m to £1.8m.

The Chippenham Avon Project is part of a wider initiative that aims to regenerate the town centre and riverside whilst also reducing flood risk by replacing ageing infrastructure.

"By committing this funding, we are not only addressing an urgent flood risk but also investing in a project that will transform the town centre, create better public spaces, and improve access to the river," said councillor Helen Belcher, Wiltshire Council's member for economic development and regeneration and assets.

"It's about safeguarding the future while enhancing quality of life today," she added.

The increase is in line with newly announced government pans to introduce new funding rules for flood defence projects that requires 10% in match funding for large risk-reducing projects.

By providing this funding, Wiltshire Council can secure as much as £16.2m from central government to replace a failing sluice gate with rock weirs.

"Approving this increase demonstrates our commitment to protecting homes and businesses from flooding and delivers good value for money by unlocking significant external investment, " said councillor Gavin Grant, cabinet member for finance at Wiltshire Council.

"For every £1 spent we put in 9p and the government puts in the other 91p," he added.

"The Chippenham Avon Project is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver resilience and regeneration, and this decision ensures we can move forward with confidence."

The council is seeking further funding to cover the remaining cost of the scheme which is estimated to be about £6m.