Decision

The Climate, Environment and Place Scrutiny Committee received a detailed presentation outlining the proposed governance arrangements, delivery approach and emerging project themes for the £50 million Somerset Rural Flood Resilience Programme. Members welcomed the opportunity presented by the funding and recognised the importance of ensuring that projects can be delivered within the programme timescales whilst providing long-term benefits for communities across Somerset.

The Committee noted:

• the proposed governance arrangements, including the development of a Programme Advisory Board and the intention to bring a detailed delivery plan through Scrutiny and Executive before submission to Defra;
• the proposed focus on community resilience, flood mitigation projects, nature-based solutions, partnership working, data and intelligence improvements and flood preparedness measures;
• the significant level of interest being expressed by communities across Somerset seeking support through the programme; and
• the need to prioritise schemes that are deliverable, evidence-based and capable of being completed within the available programme period.

The Committee RESOLVED to recommend:

1. That Somerset councillors work proactively with parish councils, community organisations, flood groups and local stakeholders to identify flood resilience priorities within their divisions and develop proposals capable of consideration within the Somerset Rural Flood Resilience Programme.
2. That communities are encouraged, wherever possible, to develop costed and deliverable proposals supported by local evidence and clear outcomes in order to assist the assessment and prioritisation process.
3. That future reports on the programme include a comprehensive risk register setting out key programme and project risks, mitigations and delivery challenges to support ongoing member oversight.
4. That officers continue engagement with communities, risk management authorities, internal drainage boards, Somerset Rivers Authority, Wessex Water, the Environment Agency and other relevant stakeholders to ensure that the final programme reflects local need and maximises delivery opportunities across Somerset.
5. That the Committee receive further updates as the programme develops, including details of approved projects, delivery arrangements, governance structures and anticipated outcomes.