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Local authorities in Gloucestershire are facing a clean-up bill of at least £50m following this summer's devastating floods. The county council warned its estimate to repair schools and roads, as well as supporting businesses and households, could rise well above this as it begins negotiations with the Government for funding. It follows a door-to-door survey of more than 5,000 households to get a more detailed picture of the scale of the damage. The Government has so far pledged £2.5m in help, but repairs to schools alone will cost £2.7m after around 50 were hit by the floods. Road repairs are expected to total £25m. The survey revealed one in six people had to move out of their homes because of the flooding when the rivers Severn and Avon burst their banks. Some residents are set to remain in temporary accommodation until Christmas. The Government has pledged help to 36 local authorities across the country affected by July's flooding from a fund of £6.2m. Communities secretary, Hazel Blears, said: ‘Once we have received an updated assessment of the damage, more targeted help will follow, including extra support through the Bellwin scheme as well as additional help with costs associated with transport, housing and schools.' Due to the exceptional circumstances, local authorities will be allowed to reclaim 100% of their costs under the Bellwin scheme instead of 85%. Ministers have also submitted a bid for EU emegency funding. The Department for Work and Pensions is offering community care grants to those on benefits or low incomes affected by the floods. The Department for Transport has £3m available for longer running infrastructure costs. And around £10m will be available from the Department for Children, Schools and Families for schools and children's services affected.

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Gloucester overwhelmed as bill for flood clean-up is set to reach £50m

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