Boston, Lincolnshire: A Community Struggles with Flooding and Climate Denial

In January 2025, Boston, Lincolnshire, experienced severe flooding that affected over 30 homes, including that of Audrey Crook, who described the floodwaters as “black water” filled with sewage. This incident is part of a broader crisis in the region, where 91% of buildings in the Boston and Skegness constituency are at some level of flood risk, making it the most vulnerable area in England. The Environment Agency has indicated that climate change is exacerbating these flooding events, with wetter winters becoming increasingly common.

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Richard Tice, the local MP and leader of Reform UK, has been a vocal critic of climate action, labeling the UK’s net zero initiatives as “net stupid.” Following the flooding, Tice acknowledged the damage and stated that his team was working to assist affected residents. However, more than a year later, many constituents, including Crook, expressed frustration over Tice's lack of direct engagement with the community, with some residents feeling abandoned in their time of need.

The Guardian

Despite Tice's climate-skeptic rhetoric, a survey by Hope Not Hate revealed that over half of potential Reform voters acknowledge human-caused climate change. This disconnect has created tension within the party, as constituents face the tangible impacts of climate change on their lives. Local resident Andy Robinson articulated this frustration, noting the incongruity between Tice's public statements and the immediate needs of flood-affected residents.

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A report from Public First and the UK Sustainable Investment and Finance Association highlighted that Boston is the “climate mortgage prisoner capital of England,” with 8,600 homes at high risk of flooding by 2050. Many residents are now trapped in high-interest mortgages for properties that are difficult to sell due to their flood risk. This situation has left some homeowners feeling financially vulnerable and unable to move forward.

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In response to the flooding, Tice emphasized the need for practical solutions, such as improved drainage systems and investment in sea defenses, rather than focusing solely on long-term net zero targets. He claimed to have raised flooding concerns in parliament and engaged with local residents and the Environment Agency. However, skepticism remains among residents regarding the effectiveness of these measures, with some expressing doubts about the follow-up actions taken by the newly elected Reform-led council.

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• “I’m sorry, if they think climate change has got nothing to do with it, I think they’re seriously wrong,” — Audrey Crook, Resident

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• “It’s frustrating to have all of these public statements being made about ‘net stupid zero’ and things like that while not attending to residents’ needs when it comes to flooding,” — Andy Robinson, Local Resident

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• “No matter how many times you’re going to try and say that climate change isn’t real, you can look to a street that’s been flooded and there’s your answer. We’re going to have to sort it out before it becomes irreversible.” — Cain Arathoon, Resident

The Guardian

As Boston grapples with the aftermath of flooding and the looming threat of climate change, the community's frustrations highlight a critical disconnect between political rhetoric and the lived experiences of residents. With significant financial and emotional stakes involved, the path forward remains uncertain as the impacts of climate change continue to unfold.

The Guardian