Why This Matters for Developers and Local Authorities

The proposed changes aim to simplify and accelerate the delivery of Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management (FCERM) projects. If implemented, they could:

  • Fully fund the first £3 million of any FCERM project, removing the need for upfront partnership contributions
  • Provide up to 90% government funding for project costs beyond £3 million
  • Offer 100% funding for maintenance and refurbishment of existing flood defence infrastructure

This marks a clear shift in the government’s approach, making it easier for local authorities and developers to bring forward resilient and futureproofed drainage and flood mitigation solutions.

What This Means for SuDS and Drainage Strategies

With greater access to funding, councils and developers will be better positioned to incorporate robust SuDS strategies into both new developments and retrofitting schemes. SuDS play a vital role in reducing surface water runoff, improving water quality, and minimising the risk of flooding.

— Ben Norman, Associate Civil Engineer, JMS Engineers

At JMS Engineers, we see this as a major opportunity to push forward with sustainable and compliant drainage solutions that meet both planning requirements and long-term environmental goals.

As specialists in flood risk and drainage design, JMS Engineers offers end-to-end support for public and private sector projects, including:

  • SuDS Reports tailored to site-specific constraints and opportunities
  • Drainage Strategy Design that aligns with local planning and national policy
  • Flood Risk Assessments (FRA) for planning submissions and due diligence
  • Property Flood Resilience Surveys to assess and mitigate flood risk in existing buildings

Our multi-disciplinary team ensures that all designs are practical, sustainable, and compliant with the latest standards – and we can advise you on aligning your project with DEFRA’s evolving funding criteria.

The DEFRA consultation closes on 9 July 2025. While the final policy has yet to be confirmed, it’s clear that more proactive and better-funded flood resilience planning is on the government’s agenda.

We encourage developers, planning consultants, and local authorities to begin preparing now.