Catastrophic Flood Risk For Exeter

Exeter is facing a catastrophic flood because there's not enough money to build defences.

The Environment Agency wanted to start new flood defences this year.  But only about half of the £25 million needed has been made available so the scheme is now on hold.

It means about five thousand homes and businesses are at risk of flooding.

The shadow minister at Defra, Gavin Shuker  has joined forces with Exeter MP Ben Bradshaw to push for more government money.

Mr Shuker's been talking to our reporter Wendy Buckingham  CLICK HERE

An agency spokesman said they needed to build partnerships with Devon County Council and Exeter City Council, and support from the public, for the scheme which couldn't be started until another £12 million was secured.