THE North-East is set to benefit from a government cash boost that will protect homes and businesses from flooding, enhance the environment and bolster economic growth.

Environment Minister Thérèse Coffey has announced that 25 new schemes around the country will receive a share £36 million announced in the Autumn Statement to improve flood protection.

In Northumberland, the main pier at Seahouses, protecting 140 properties and the town’s picturesque harbour, will be regenerated in a Northumberland County Council project thanks to an extra £2.9 million.

And in Hexham, £3.7 million has been allocated towards a £5 million flood alleviation scheme which will be delivered by the Environment Agency at Tyne Mills and Bridge End Industrial Estates. Work is ongoing to secure the remainder of the funding to progress this scheme.

Leila Huntington, Flood Risk Manager for the Environment Agency in the North East, said: “This funding is fantastic news for the North East which ensures Northumberland County Council’s vital work at Seahouses can go ahead imminently and we are one step closer to bringing our project to protect industry in Hexham to fruition.

“The council’s plan to refurbish the iconic Seahouses pier – an important coastal defence – will start in April, ensuring it will continue to protect the community.”