“Climate change is making extreme weather events more common,” said Environment Agency flood risk manager Richard Knight, pointing to January 2025's intense rainfall as a warning for Walton-le-Dale.

The Environment Agency has submitted a planning application for the next phase of the multi-million-pound Preston & South Ribble Flood Risk Management Scheme. If approved by South Ribble Borough Council, construction would start in spring 2026 and complete in 2027, with thousands of properties promised stronger protection.

According to the Agency, the proposals focus on the River Ribble and River Darwen through Walton-le-Dale. They include upgrading existing barriers, raising the height of some sections, and building new flood defence walls and embankments where they are most needed.

An enhanced maintenance programme is also planned in Frenchwood, making sure routine checks and repairs keep pace with heavier rainfall and rising river levels so the system performs when it matters.

Officials say this phase follows a public consultation held earlier this year. The application is now with South Ribble Borough Council and is available on the council's website for residents and businesses to view and comment on.

The scheme sits within the government's record £2.65bn, two-year investment in flood protection, which the Environment Agency is delivering across England. The funding covers both the construction of new schemes and the repair and upkeep of existing defences.

The Agency noted that Walton-le-Dale's existing flood walls were not overtopped in January. Even so, the sheer intensity of that rainfall underlined the case for higher standards along the Ribble and Darwen to keep communities and local high streets open during storms.

For local firms, reliability is everything-keeping staff and deliveries moving when the weather turns. Better defences reduce the risk of closures, damage and insurance headaches, and should make day-to-day life more predictable for small businesses near the river corridors.

Next, the council will examine the designs, environmental reports and construction plans before reaching a decision. If planning is granted, the Environment Agency will confirm sequencing and keep neighbours updated ahead of a spring 2026 start.