The Strategic Flood Risk Management report published by the UK National Audit Office (NOA) says there is a risk of flood defenses deteriorating in areas where their maintenance is given a low priority – typically in areas with fewer homes.

The NOA said a lack of funding means that the Environment Agency (EA) will have to concentrate the maintenance of defenses in high-risk areas at the expense of other areas. The NOA revealed that 1,356 flood defense assets considered as having a lower benefit-cost ratio (50% of total flood defenses) were being maintained to a minimal level. This would result in faster deterioration faster, potentially increasing replacement costs in the long term.

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