Cumberland Council has confirmed it has secured £40 million to deliver a major flood alleviation project in Millom and Haverigg.
The funding has been awarded by the Environment Agency and will be used to deliver a Flood Risk Management Scheme described as one of the largest investments of its kind in the area. The project is expected to significantly reduce flood risk for hundreds of homes, businesses and key infrastructure.
The scheme will be funded through the Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Capital Grant, with additional support from the Local Levy and partnership contributions from United Utilities.
The council said the investment represents a major step in strengthening protection against flooding and its wider impacts. Once complete, the scheme is expected to improve long term resilience, support economic growth and contribute to the delivery of the council’s £25 million Millom Town Deal.
Cumberland Council said the project will help provide lasting confidence for the community while delivering long term benefits for Millom and Haverigg.
Cllr Bob Kelly, Executive Member for Environment and Planning at Cumberland Council, said: “This approval marks a significant milestone in our commitment to reducing flood risk and building climate resilience across Cumberland.
“It is fantastic news for Millom and Haverigg. Securing this funding means we can deliver a scheme that will protect hundreds of homes and businesses from the devastating impact of flooding. It’s not just about reducing risk, it’s about giving our communities peace of mind, protecting vital infrastructure, and creating a safer, more resilient future. This investment will also help sustain local jobs and encourage economic growth, ensuring Millom and Haverigg remain vibrant places to live and work.
“I’m really pleased to see this scheme, which has been subject to delays outside our control, get off the ground. I’m proud of the work of Cumberland Council officers who have worked throughout to help make it happen.
“We look forward to working closely with partners to deliver this essential scheme.”
Cllr Mark Fryer, Leader of Cumberland Council, said the funding would make a significant difference to the area.
“This is brilliant news for Millom and Haverigg. It represents one of the largest funding contributions Cumberland Council has secured for the area, and it will make a massive difference for local people and businesses once the scheme is complete.
“I want to thank the Environment Agency, United Utilities, and our dedicated team at Cumberland Council for pursuing this funding opportunity and pushing this vital project forward. Their hard work means we can now deliver a scheme that will provide long term protection and renewed confidence for the community.”
The flood alleviation scheme will now move into the delivery phase, with Cumberland Council working alongside the Environment Agency and local partners to bring the project forward.
