RESIDENTS and businesses across the Forest of Dean are set to benefit from a major funding boost aimed at tackling long-standing flooding issues.

Forest of Dean MP Matt Bishop has announced that the district will receive £858,000 to improve flood resilience, with the investment delivered through the Environment Agency and awarded by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA).

Parts of the Forest have historically been vulnerable to flooding, with heavy rainfall causing repeated disruption to homes, businesses and infrastructure. Communities in low-lying areas have often faced significant clean-up costs and uncertainty following severe weather events.

The latest funding is expected to support a range of measures, including improvements to existing flood defences and further work to strengthen the area’s overall resilience to extreme weather. It forms part of wider national efforts to better prepare communities for the increasing risks posed by climate change.

Mr Bishop welcomed the announcement, describing it as an important step forward for the district. He said: “Fantastic news for the Forest of Dean! Parts of the Forest have long suffered from flooding, with businesses and homes devastated.

“I am very pleased to announce that the Forest of Dean will receive a major £858,000 investment from the Environment Agency, awarded by DEFRA, to support flood resilience across the Forest of Dean.

“This funding will support wider improvements and ongoing work to better protect communities from future flooding.

“I understand how vital this issue is to both residents and business owners, especially those who have been deeply affected by past flooding. While there is still more to be done, I remain fully committed to securing ongoing investment and taking further action to safeguard our communities. This investment represents meaningful progress towards protecting our area from future flooding.”

Further details on how the funding will be allocated locally are expected to be confirmed in due course.