Wiltshire Council has expressed their disappointment at the Government's decision to withhold grant funding for residents and businesses affected by the widespread flooding caused by Storm Bert.
The council had anticipated receiving funding, similar to previous incidents, and had begun the process of contacting affected homeowners and businesses to outline the application process.
Over 220 reports of flooding, impacting both properties and roads across the county, were received during the storm – the worst flooding seen in Chippenham and Melksham since the 1960s, with the River Avon also bursting its banks in Bradford on Avon.
The council's initial outreach to affected residents and businesses was based on the expectation of government support, a precedent set by previous funding allocated following similar flooding events since 2013.
The visit of the Minister for Water and Flooding to Wiltshire in the aftermath of Storm Bert further highlighted the severity of the situation.
Cllr Richard Clewer, Leader of Wiltshire Council, stated, "It is extremely disappointing that the Government has chosen not to provide financial aid to our residents and businesses who suffered significantly due to Storm Bert.
"This is particularly frustrating given the substantial impact the funding would have had on their recovery. Despite the unprecedented scale of the flooding, we will receive no government assistance. We will continue to lobby the Government vigorously to secure the vital funding our communities desperately need."
The council remains committed to supporting those affected, despite the lack of governmental financial assistance.
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