Half of England’s roads at risk of flooding by 2050
The UK’s road system is at serious risk of flooding, with the situation expected to significantly deteriorate over the next two decades. This is according to a new transport resilience report published by the Department for Transport on Tuesday (3 November).
“In England alone, 37% of railways and 38% of roads are in areas currently assessed as at risk from one or more sources of flooding. This is expected to rise to 54% and 46% respectively based on climate change projections by the middle of this century,” the department said.
Adding to the pressure is increasing population sizes and subsequent housing developments.
“Transport resilience can be impacted by the built environment and change in land use, with flood risk to the road and rail network exacerbated if, for example, effective drainage and water capture measures are not designed into new development from the beginning or are not renewed. An increasing population and ambitious house building targets also put pressure on the transport system,” the department said.
“Conversely, well-planned development can actively support transport resilience. Integrating active travel infrastructure, mixed-use development and good connectivity into new and existing communities can reduce congestion, provide people with a wider range of travel options, and improve the system’s ability to withstand and recover from shocks.”
Mass maintenance required
Improved, targeted maintenance of existing infrastructure is one of the most effective tools available to combat these issues, the department said.
It noted that road maintenance and renewal provides very high value for money, with approximately £7 in benefit for every £1 spent on local roads.
“Well-planned and preventative maintenance of infrastructure ensures continued efficiency of the transport network, reduces the risk of unplanned closures, and supports long-term economic growth by protecting critical assets against emerging challenges.
“Noting the substantive requirements for maintenance and renewals across the transport network, almost £25 billion has been committed to operating, renewing, and enhancing the strategic road network between 2026 and 2031, £7.3 billion is being made available for local highway maintenance between 2026 and 2030.”
