KENDAL is to receive an extra £5 million from the Government towards flood defence projects.

It is part of a £62.35 million package of investment announced today by Environment Secretary Theresa Villiers.

The proposed flood defence scheme for Kendal involves three phases, of which the first will provide a 1 in 50 level of protection for 1,480 homes and 1,151 businesses.

The Government estimates the additional cash injection into Kendal could unlock additional partnership funding of £6.8 million.

Thirteen projects across England will benefit from a share of the cash, which as well as helping develop existing flood defences, will boost economic regeneration and increase prosperity in those areas. Many of the projects are located in communities which suffered from flooding during winter 2015.

In total, more than 9,004 homes will be better protected against flooding through this round of funding. The extra funding is in addition the government’s commitment to invest a record £2.6 billion over six years up to 2021 to better protect 300,000 homes across the country.

Mrs Villiers said the funding will support the development of 11 projects in the Northern Powerhouse, including four in Cumbria, seven in Yorkshire, four in Lancashire and two in the North East.

Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury Simon Clarke said: “Flooding can have a devastating impact on communities.

“The government's injection of an additional £62.35m will help protect communities, and ensure they remain vibrant places for people to live, work, and visit.”