£3M Flood Funding for Lavendon Amidst Recurrent Deluges

Lavendon, a village near Milton Keynes, is set to benefit from £3 million in flood protection funding, following repeated flooding incidents. The village has been inundated three times in the past decade, most recently in 2024. Residents like Steve Smith have endured significant hardship, spending extended periods in temporary accommodation and facing substantial financial losses. He shared, "Every time it rains we are anticipating flooding again, so the measures cannot come soon enough."

The proposed funding, a joint effort between the city council and the Environment Agency, targets flood hot spots including residential areas like Beanhill, Netherfield, and Woughton. Subject to final approval in the council's 2026-27 capital budget, the schemes aim to enhance protection for approximately 30 homes in Lavendon and over 100 in Woughton. Work in Lavendon could commence as early as summer, focusing on managing water run-off, while Woughton will see investment in modernized drainage systems.

Milton Keynes's design historically incorporates features to mitigate flooding, such as man-made lakes built in the 1970s and 1980s to divert water. Newer estates also feature sustainable drainage systems. Labour council leader Pete Marland emphasized that the authority is "mitigating against the impact of climate change" and highlighted the financial benefits of flood defence, citing insurance costs and business disruption.

Local councillor Peter Geary described the severity of flash flooding in Lavendon, where water levels can rise rapidly, necessitating immediate evacuation and securing of property. He noted that in severe events, roads and over 40 properties, including essential local amenities, can be submerged.

This funding is anticipated to alleviate the significant emotional and financial strain experienced by residents who have faced substantial repair costs and the inconvenience of temporary relocation. The proactive measures are seen as crucial to preventing future damage and restoring peace of mind to affected communities.