Homeowners and businesses across Perth and Kinross could soon access direct financial aid from the local authority to protect their properties against flooding under a proposed Property Flood Resilience Grant. If the proposals are approved, the initiative will offer funding of up to £5,000 per property to facilitate the installation of measures that mitigate the impacts of flooding events.

The creation of the grant scheme follows a rise in regional flood risks, with more than 1,000 flooding incidents impacting homes, businesses, and roads over the last four years. While Perth and Kinross Council maintains that large-scale flood protection schemes remain vital, it notes that individual property owners and local communities frequently serve as the initial line of defence when flooding takes place.

The fund intends to deliver practical support straight to property owners, enabling them to safeguard their premises. Eligible applicants will be permitted to use the funding to install specific resilience measures designed to block water from entering buildings, restrict damage, and accelerate recovery times if flooding does occur.

Applicants will collaborate with the Council to determine the most effective protection options for their premises, with assessments assisted by organisations such as the Scottish Flood Forum. This process ensures that any installed measures are customised to the individual risk level of each building and comply with recognised flood resilience standards.

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The grant is designed to cover a substantial portion of the installation costs, increasing affordability for households and businesses that might otherwise struggle to finance these improvements independently. Similar initiatives operated in other areas of Scotland have resulted in an average award of £3,400 per property. In the majority of instances, this amount is sufficient to cover the total costs, simplifying the investment process for long-term protection.

The £150,000 initiative was agreed through the Council's Budget and aims to bolster local flood resilience alongside existing community support and broader flood management strategies. By targeting individual buildings, the project is intended to complement larger infrastructure assets and community-wide resilience efforts.

The Council has highlighted that enabling residents to take proactive measures is a central component of adapting to climate change impacts, matching national guidance. Assisting people in preparing their properties is anticipated to lower overall damage, minimise disruption, and reduce the long-term effects of flooding on local communities.

Following the official launch of the scheme, applications will be open to both residential homeowners and businesses, with funding distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. The Council plans to offer guidance across the entire process, spanning from the initial inquiry through to final installation.

The Climate Change and Sustainability Committee will formally consider the proposals on 27 May 2026.

Committee Convener Councillor Richard Watters said: "If approved, the grant scheme will play an important role in helping residents and businesses protect their homes and businesses from extreme weather events.

"We know the climate is changing and this, unfortunately, heightens the risk of flooding. This scheme is about the Council working with those most at risk to make it easier for them to protect their properties as much as possible."

During the same meeting, the Committee will also review the Bridge of Earn Surface Water Flood Study, which outlines drainage upgrades on Old Edinburgh Road as well as improvements at Forgandenny Road and Back Street. Additionally, a report regarding the Perth Surface Water Management Plan will be evaluated to consider how future developments can mitigate surface water flooding risks in the city. Both of these reports contain recommendations for property-specific flood resilience measures that owners could consider, which may qualify for the proposed grant funding.