IT has been announced following the autumn statement that the Environment Agency plans to invest more money into preventing flooding in Salisbury, Tisbury and Tilshead.

The Government over the next six years plans on investing £2.3billion into preventing flooding developed with local partners through the 12 Regional Flood and Coastal Committees.

In addition Wiltshire residents and businesses who suffered flooding last winter have been offered further financial support.

An Environment Agency spokesperson said: “Salisbury has been very close to flooding in recent years. A combination of river, Groundwater and Surface Water sources means Salisbury is a very difficult area to defend from flooding.

“We are reviewing our flood risk options and are investigating possible solutions. We are also working closely with Wiltshire Council and Salisbury City Council to look at community resilience.”

Around 500 homes were flooded in Wiltshire last winter and many areas have reported that groundwater levels are already above average for this time of year.

TIlshead, which suffered from flooding when the Till broke its banks, is going to receive investment to build an upstream flood storage area to reduce the flow of the river.

The Environment Agecy is referring to this as a “low cost innovative solution” to reduce the risk of subsequent flooding.

The MP for Salisbury John Glen said: “I am pleased to see that the Environment Agency are working on evaluations for the much needed strengthening of flood risk areas within the Salisbury constituency.

“I will continue to work closely with local parish councils, flood wardens and the Environment Agency to move these programmes forward in the months ahead.”

Homes and businesses that suffered in the floods last year can also expect some rest bite with the schemes that provide council tax and business rate relief, grants for repairs and money to the council for the cost of supporting communities all extended.

Jonathon Seed, cabinet member for flooding, said: “This is excellent news for those residents and businesses who were badly hit by flooding last winter and particularly those who suffered from the exceptional rainfall in September. Hopefully this additional financial boost will help them with their continued recovery.

“The council works with residents, businesses, parish councils and other agencies on flood prevention throughout the year, and helps manage the emergency response during flooding.

“We fully understand how devastating flooding can be, and appreciate the importance of all support from national and local government, both practical and financial.”