Adam Dance MP pushes for flooding action in meeting with Minister

Adam Dance, Liberal Democrat MP for Yeovil, has met with Flooding Minister Emma Hardy MP to demand urgent action on flooding in South Somerset following repeated devastation caused by storms.

The meeting, held on 25th February, was also attended by Somerset MPs Tessa Munt and Gideon Amos, alongside representatives from the Environment Agency. Adam raised key concerns from his Flooding Forum on 13th February, where residents shared their frustrations over delayed responses, lack of clear responsibility, and the need for stronger flood defences.

During the meeting, Adam called for a fair share of the Government’s £2.65 billion investment in flood defences to be allocated to South Somerset communities, particularly those hit hardest by recent storms. He highlighted the growing impact of climate change and raised concerns over the lack of coordination between agencies, which leaves residents unsure who to turn to when flooding occurs. He also stressed the importance of greater powers and funding for the Somerset Rivers Authority and Environment Agency to improve local response and long-term planning.

Adam emphasised that communities need better support to protect themselves, including access to sandbags, road closures, and clearer guidance on taking action without fear of prosecution. Many residents feel powerless to prevent flood damage due to excessive red tape and a lack of resources on the ground.

Speaking after the meeting, Adam Dance MP said:

"Flooding in South Somerset is getting worse, and I’ve seen first-hand the impact on people’s homes, roads, and businesses. At my Flooding Forum, residents made it clear they are tired of agencies shifting responsibility while their communities suffer. I pushed the Minister to ensure Somerset gets its fair share of flood defence funding and to make it easier for local people to act before it’s too late. I will keep fighting for real investment and solutions that put our communities first."

In response, the Minister committed to reviewing available funding for South Somerset flood defences and mapping out responsibilities for different flood assets to prevent confusion. She also agreed to consider a single point of contact for flooding issues, as well as looking at ways to cut red tape and make it easier for communities to take preventative action.

Adam also invited the Minister to visit South Somerset to see the challenges first-hand and hear directly from those affected.