The National Infrastructure Commission for Wales (NICW) appointed Miller Research to undertake research to identify challenges and provide solutions around finance and resources for flood and coastal erosion risk management (FCERM). Flooding is one of the biggest climate-related threats in Wales, and there is not a one-size-fits all approach. There are numerous stakeholders across many levels (national, regional and local governments, insurance companies, infrastructure and development companies, water companies, householders, businesses) and the effects of flooding are suffered across all levels (from public sector assets to privately-owned ones). Moreover, funding streams are often unclear; there are different fundings for infrastructure development (depending on the type of infrastructure and the size), maintenance works, staff hires and for staff retention.  

Amongst the many barriers that FCERM is facing in Wales, a reduced workforce and lack of sufficient funding are two of the most impactful. Miller Research conducted a mixed-method research to help unpack the complex interconnectedness of the stakeholders across all levels within FCERM, highlighting the most effective ways to improve the status quo and presented potential alternatives to increase resources, streamline financing and identify new and alternative ways of funding.  

Given the extent of the challenge that is improving FCERM for the long-term, NICW also commissioned Arup and JBA, who led on other research areas (such as planning, visioning, strategy and management). The findings from all workstreams were combined into one broader report and plan for action, which should provide substantial evidence into how FCERM shall be carried out throughout the coming decades into the end of the century.