Cumberland Council is thrilled to announce that the Environment Agency has awarded £40 million to deliver a major Flood Risk Management Scheme (FRMS) in Millom and Haverigg, one of the largest investments of its kind in the area.
This transformative project will dramatically reduce flood risk for hundreds of homes, local businesses, and vital infrastructure providing long‑term security and confidence for the community.
The scheme is being funding through the Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management (FCERM) Capital Grant, supplemented by the Local Levy and partnership contributions from United Utilities.
This investment marks a significant step forward in protecting Millom and Haverigg from the threat of flooding and associated impacts. Once completed, the scheme will provide enhanced resilience, help unlock economic growth, and support the delivery of the council’s £25 million Millom Town Deal, ensuring long‑lasting benefits for the local area.
Cllr Bob Kelly, Cumberland Council’s Executive Member for Environment and Planning, said:
"This approval marks a significant milestone in our commitment to reducing flood risk and building climate resilience across Cumberland.
“It is fantastic news for Millom and Haverigg. Securing this funding means we can deliver a scheme that will protect hundreds of homes and businesses from the devastating impact of flooding. It’s not just about reducing risk, it’s about giving our communities peace of mind, protecting vital infrastructure, and creating a safer, more resilient future. This investment will also help sustain local jobs and encourage economic growth, ensuring Millom and Haverigg remain vibrant places to live and work.
"I'm really pleased to see this scheme, which has been subject to delays outside our control, get off the ground. I'm proud of the work of Cumberland Council officers who have worked throughout to help make it happen.
“We look forward to working closely with partners to deliver this essential scheme."
Cllr Mark Fryer, Leader of Cumberland Council, said:
“This is brilliant news for Millom and Haverigg. It represents one of the largest funding contributions Cumberland Council has secured for the area, and it will make a massive difference for local people and businesses once the scheme is complete.
“I want to thank the Environment Agency, United Utilities, and our dedicated team at Cumberland Council for pursuing this funding opportunity and pushing this vital project forward. Their hard work means we can now deliver a scheme that will provide long‑term protection and renewed confidence for the community.”
The project will now move into the delivery phase, with Cumberland Council working closely with the Environment Agency and local partners to bring this essential scheme to life.
