Stockport Council has called on the government to provide more support for residents affected by flooding at the beginning of 2025.

In an open letter to the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) Cllr Jilly Julian asked for 'urgently needed resources' to cover some of the damages from flooding.

In the letter, Cllr Julian explained that local councils " simply cannot afford to provide badly needed relief", and asked why the Flood Recovery Framework - the government's emergency flooding fund - had not been activated.

Responding to the letter, a DEFRA spokesperson said that the government would be investing £2.4bn to provide better flood defences.

After flooding in the New Year, businesses and homes around Stockport incurred severe damages.

Stockport's terrain makes it more susceptible to floods. The River Mersey is seen here flowing high following severe rainfall (Image - Nub News)

"A significant amount of damage was caused by the flooding", Cllr Julian said. "Businesses have closed and hundreds of residents have had to leave their homes, some of which won't be habitable again for months."

Addressing DEFRA secretary of state Emma Hardy MP, Cllr Julian said: "Firstly, I'm keen to know why you chose not to activate the Flood Recovery Framework following the 1st of January 2025, and provide much needed crisis relief in an already challenging financial climate.

"Secondly, in the absence of this funding, will you provide urgently needed resources to help those residents and businesses who are in dire need of central Government financial support?"

Meadow Mill, an apartment building which was damaged by floods, has since welcomed its residents again (Image - Nub News)

Speaking on BBC Radio Manchester, council leader Mark Hunter also said: "All we're asking for is some assistance towards the costs that people have incurred, whether it be temporary accommodation or furniture ruined, whatever it is.

"There is no reasonable reason why people should be out of pocket directly, when this emergency fund exists precisely for that reason."

A Government spokesperson said: "Our thoughts are with all those whose homes and businesses have been affected by the recent flooding, including those in Stockport.

"We pay tribute to the emergency services and first responders across the country for their continuous and dedicated work to keep communities safe.

"There is much more work needed to be done to protect homes which is why we are investing £2.4 billion to build and maintain flood defences, which will help protect homes and businesses across the country."

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