In 2012, consistent heavy rain events brought widespread flood damage and disruption to many parts of the UK. The estimated bill for the flood damage exceeded £1bn. Serious flooding can happen at any time, and climate projections suggest that extreme weather will become more frequent in the future.

Following Sir Michael Pitt's recommendations, the Flood and Water Management Act of 2010 was central to reducing flood risk. The legislation aims to provide for better, more comprehensive management of flood risk for people, homes and businesses. In the latest government spending review there was a boost for new flood defences with £370m allocated for 2015-16 and a further pledge to increase funding in line with inflation until 2021. However, the future of an agreement between government and insurers is in doubt, meaning that thousands of homes and businesses could be without affordable cover. What will this mean for the future of flood defence investment and areas at high risk of flooding?

At Flood Risk Management: Managing Extreme Weather, the agenda will explore how to best prepare for the increasing frequency of floods and adverse weather conditions, and expert speakers will discuss options for investment and flood risk insurance after the Statement of Principles expires. This conference will offer practical advice and guidance to prepare, respond to and recover from future flood emergencies and extreme weather.