Community groups, schools, GP surgeries, social housing spaces and businesses in Portsmouth are being invited to apply for grants of up to £2,000 to install special planters designed to help manage rainwater and reduce local flood risks. The new funding, offered by Portsmouth City Council in partnership with Southern Water, aims to provide a practical way for local organisations to address the challenges caused by heavier rainfall.
The drainage planters are designed to connect directly to building downpipes. By capturing rainwater from roofs and releasing it slowly, they ease pressure on the drainage network and help prevent storm overflows from entering the local environment. This initiative follows a difficult start to the year for the region, as January 2026 was recorded as the second-wettest January in Hampshire since records began in 1836.
Councillor Kimberly Barrett, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Greening the City, stated that the grant gives residents a way to be part of the solution to climate-driven flooding while also creating greener, healthier spaces. The funding is provided through the Nature Positive Portsmouth programme, which is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund as part of a wider three-year project to transform the city’s green infrastructure.
Eligible groups, including GP surgeries and social housing spaces, have until 12 noon on Monday 29 June 2026 to submit their applications. All projects that receive funding must be completed by 30 June 2027.
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