1.2 Million Buildings in England at Flood Risk Without Defenses
A study by Ordnance Survey and Snowflake reveals that 1.2 million buildings in England are at risk of flooding and lack flood defenses. Two-thirds of these buildings are located in economically vulnerable areas, primarily facing surface-water flooding. The report highlights that 6.3 million properties in England are at risk from various flooding sources. Additionally, the UK government is investing £10.5 billion in flood defenses. The analysis indicates that many at-risk buildings were constructed before 2001, when flood risk considerations became mandatory in planning permissions. This situation is exacerbated by increasing rainfall and urban development. The findings underscore the need for prioritizing investment in flood defenses to protect vulnerable properties.
Published 3 hours ago • 15 Apr 2026, 01:50 PM IST