Thames Regional Flood and Coastal Committee (RFCC) strategy
The Thames RFCC Strategy sets a clear direction for how the Committee will work with partners and communities over the next decade to manage flood and coastal erosion risk across the Thames region.
Applies to England
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The Thames RFCC region encompasses one of the most complex and diverse catchments in England. It includes more than a quarter of the country’s population and significant national infrastructure.
The region experiences a complex mix of flood risk from:
- rivers (fluvial)
- surface water
- groundwater
- sea
Updated evidence indicates that more than 1.5 million properties are at risk from surface water flooding, and over 615,000 properties are at risk from rivers and the sea. Climate change, growth and changing land use are impacting the strategic nature of these risks. This means we need a holistic strategy that is forward looking, evidence-led and adaptable to these long-term pressures.
Building on the 2021 Strategy, the 2026 Strategy sets refreshed priorities to:
- guide investment
- strengthen partnership working
- improve community resilience
The Strategy aligns with Defra’s 2025 flood funding reforms and the 2026 to 2029 investment programme, providing a strategic framework for coordinated action across the region. The Strategy was developed collaboratively with:
- Thames RFCC
- lead local flood authorities
- Environment Agency
- other risk management authorities
it provides clear direction for:
- reducing flood risk
- strengthening evidence
- supporting communities
- achieving better outcomes through partnership working
All proposals submitted to the Thames RFCC will be expected to demonstrate how they contribute to the delivery of the Strategy.
The Strategy is built around 5 principles:
- Put communities at the heart of everything we do
- Create resilient communities, property, infrastructure and environments
- Connect, inspire, lead and share across communities and partners
- Pioneer, learn and strengthen the evidence base
- Attract, prioritise, allocate and monitor funding
We will review the Strategy as required, including at the start of the next investment programme. This will make sure it remains aligned with national priorities and emerging challenges. Progress will be monitored through the supporting monitoring framework. This will allow Thames RFCC and its partners to track delivery and maintain focus on achieving long-term outcomes.