Defra has promised a £50m investment to protect farmers against future flood damage. After another devastating year of extreme weather, which saw some crops destroyed by vast volumes of water, this additional flood fund will be directed towards Internal Drainage Boards (IDBs).

The government hopes this new financial support will safeguard rural communities while also "bolstering" England’s resilience to future floods.

The £50m investment will be distributed to IDBs—the public bodies responsible for managing water levels for agriculture in specific areas.

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This increase in funding will provide IDBs with financial stability as they plan for future flood prevention, putting them on a "firm footing," according to Defra.

IDBs will be able to apply for a share of the new funding to support projects planned for 2025 and 2026. These projects will include improving, repairing, or replacing flood barriers, embankments, and maintaining watercourses.

The distribution of funds will begin immediately following the announcement, with the aim of reducing the risk and impact of floods on farmers and rural communities.

Floods minister Emma Hardy said: "More intense weather events are destroying homes, businesses, and livelihoods across the country, with farming communities bearing the brunt.

“That’s why this government is reforming how flood funds are distributed, to better protect businesses and rural and coastal communities."

The government also announced that flood recovery payments will finally be issued to farmers affected by last year’s severe weather, via the delayed Farming Recovery Fund. A total of £60 million—£10m more than initially expected—will be distributed to 13,000 farmers, with payments ranging from £2895 to £25,000.

The fund was developed in collaboration between Defra and industry stakeholders, addressing the modern challenges faced by farmers today. Defra has stated that payments are expected to land in farmers' accounts by November 21.

Farming Minister Daniel Zeichner said: "I’ve asked for these payments to be made as quickly as possible to farmers affected by the severe wet weather last winter.

“The £60 million fund is £10 million more than was agreed by the previous government, ensuring farmers get the support they need to recover."

A consultation will also be launched in the new year to review the current formula for allocating funding for flood defences.

The goal is to ensure that the challenges facing businesses and rural communities are adequately considered when distributing flood protection funds.