Northamptonshire among six pilot areas for new flood defence spending

The county is one of six areas in England taking part in the new project announced by Floods Minister Rory Stewart.

The ‘Pathfinder Projects’ pilot schemes will look at cutting red tape and costs for small communities at risk of flooding across the country.

Each pilot will support local authorities in developing innovative ways to apply for funding, combining smaller projects into larger and more effective flood risk management packages for each area.

Northamptonshire County Council is to get the money to help with addressing flood risks in parts of Daventry, Helmdon, Grimscote, Cogenhoe, Quinton, Grendon and Grafton Underwood.

Floods Minister Rory Stewart said: “We are investing in flood protection across the country at record levels, with an unprecedented six-year commitment of £2.3 billion to better protect an additional 300,000 homes by 2021.

“These pilots will make it easier for local authorities to apply for flood protection funding so they can better protect people’s homes and businesses. Our rural and small communities will also have the opportunity to play a key role in developing these schemes.”