By Richard Johnstone | 12 February 2014
Companies hit by the current spate of flooding will be given business rate relief, Prime Minister David Cameron announced today as he set out a package of measures designed to give financial help to affected people and premises.
Grants of up to £5,000 will be available to homeowners to improve flood resilience and a £10m fund to help farmers whose land has been flooded, Cameron said at Prime Minister’s Questions. The commitments come after Cameron stated yesterday that money would be ‘no object’ in the relief effort.
Communities Secretary Eric Pickles had already announced that councils will be able to claim 100% of flood cleanup costs under the Bellwin scheme, up from the previous cap of 85%. Pickles also said that the government would provide an additional £130m for emergency repairs and maintenance – £30m in the current year and £100m next year.
‘We’ll spend what is necessary to help families and communities get through this very difficult time,’ Cameron told MPs today.
‘I would like to praise our emergency services, volunteers, all those working for the Environment Agency around the clock. All military assistance that’s required is there – people only have to ask.’
Cameron’s announcement comes as the Local Government Association called for the emergency cash already committed by Whitehall to reach communities quickly.
Councils have been working to protect communities from the devastating impact of the severe weather and prolonged flooding, said Clyde Loakes, vice chair of the LGA’s environment and housing board.
Tens of thousands of sandbags have been distributed, roads have been cleared, stranded motorists rescued, floodwater pumped away and emergency accommodation organised for affected families.
‘With the weather showing no sign of easing, the relief and recovery effort will remain our top priority,’ Loakes added.
‘The commitment by the government to fully fund the recovery effort will help the councils working tirelessly on the ground to protect residents, homes and businesses from the damage being caused by the heavy rains, strong winds and flooding.
‘Councils are best-placed to understand where help is needed locally and it is vital that government works with us to ensure that this money reaches affected communities as quickly as possible.’