Flood action calls from insurers

Defences are being shored up in Lewes after floods in 2000

Calls for more action to minimise the risk of flooding in Lewes, which was hit by devastating floods in autumn 2000, have come from insurers.

The Association of British Insurers (ABI) said the floods which affected 600 homes and 200 businesses cost £80m.

Director general Stephen Haddrill said government investment in defences had increased but more action was needed.

He said the ABI wanted insurance to be widely available but this could only be done in partnership with government.

Mr Haddrill called for sustained investment, innovative building design and protection, and scrutiny of the use of flood plains.

Where the flood risk is managed, insurance remains readily available Stephen Haddrill

"Since the floods five years ago, the government has increased investment in flood defences, but the region still needs to see action," he said.

The ABI said that despite flood defence improvements, parts of the town still remained vulnerable.

Mr Haddrill said insurers were "committed to ensuring that flood insurance remains as widely available as possible".

But he said: "In the face of the increasing flood risk through climate change, this can only be done through our partnership with government.

"Where the flood risk is managed, insurance remains readily available.

Flood defence work

"And where the risk remains high, the ABI and its members are keen to work with local communities to see what steps can be taken."

Work began this year on shoring up flood defences in Lewes after the floods in October 2000.

The Environment Agency is repairing 35m of the River Ouse wall with 20m-high pilings at a cost of £300,000.

Damage estimated at £80m was caused when the river burst its banks and 4ins of rain fell in 12 hours.

The Environment Agency said repairs would prevent further deterioration of defences and protect a key area of Lewes.