MPs are warning that flood protection still faces "major risks" - saying too many homes remain in the firing line.

A report by the Commons' watchdog-style Public Accounts Committee says despite the millions lavished on protecting areas like Worcestershire in recent years, the risk of extreme weather, lack of clarity over budgets and climate change means more needs to be done.

It also warns the Government that despite the Coalition recently announcing a six-year plan for new defences, cash to maintain existing ones is only settled annually which is stopping the likes of the Environment Agency from taking a "long-term approach".

The publication has been backed by Worcester-based flood campaigner Mary Dhonau, who said: "It's what I've said all along, obviously the concern is if you don't have a proper maintenance budget you run into problems.

"Every time we get floods, those flood defences are compromised."

Worcester MP Robin Walker has just written to the Department for Communities and Local Government to seek assurances over the planning system, saying the Environment Agency should always be consulted on all new-builds near to rivers.

He added: "We need to address the issue of flooding from every angle - we are in a better position than we've been in for some time but it must remain a priority."

In 2007 the worst-ever floods in Worcestershire damaged 4,500 homes but since then £12.5 million has gone into new defences in areas like Worcester and Kempsey.

In February last year, in contrast just 163 properties were affected and the next plan is to raise New Road next year in a £1 million programme.

Councillor Anthony Blagg, Worcestershire County Council's cabinet member for the environment said: "The council together with its partners does take a long term approach to flood minimization in Worcestershire.

"We have experienced a number of flooding events and the lessons learnt have helped us to respond.

"However there is plenty more to do including the creation of a flood risk strategy and surface water management plan."

The Commons watchdog says there is still a "lack of transparency" over the consequences of letting flood defences fail, with the Environment Agency deciding to stop or reduce funding for maintenance or hand responsibility over to local people.

The MPs also warned the approach to securing funding for defences from councils and businesses was not matching up to the Government's ambition for raising money from outside sources.