Businesses, utility companies and local enterprise partnerships will be asked to make up the rest of the £300m River Thames defence scheme announced at the end of last year.

After a meeting with Philip Hammond, MP for Runnymede and Weybridge, plans for funding were unveiled.

Seven councils who were seriously affected by flooding at the beginning of last year are part of the scheme, and will work to secure contributions from Thames Valley Berkshire, Enterprise M3 and London Enterprise Panel as well as approaching other companies.

Jan 2014: Flood strife continues across Elmbridge

Feb 2014: Elmbridge Council puts aside £500k for flood victims

Elmbridge, Surrey, Richmond, Windsor and Maidenhead, Kingston, Spelthorne and Runnymede councils agreed the move with the Regional Flood and Coastal committee (RFCC) at the meeting on Friday, January 9, with Mr Hammond to discuss better protection of 15,000 homes and businesses in the area.

Last month the Government increased funding for the project by £60m, taking the total to about £220m. The RFCC has invested another £30m.

Councils have confirmed their commitment to the project during the next five years while the Environment Agency and Thames Water have agreed to work together to contribute.

Surrey County Council leader David Hodge said: "The Government's increased funding has made the scheme more achievable but it still leaves it around £50m short, which is tough given the pressure we're facing on school places and elderly social care.

"That is why we will be seeking funding from utility companies, businesses and local enterprise partnerships whose customers and residents will benefit from the river defence while also committing to contributing towards this vital project ourselves."

The scheme will aim to reduce the flood risk along the Thames between Datchet and Teddington by building a flood channel and improving three weirs.

Julia Simpson, programme sponsor from the Environment Agency, said: "This commitment from the local authority leaders to fund the scheme and work together to find the remaining funds is great news.

"It shows the strong commitment we have from the partnership of the local authorities, the Environment Agency, the Regional Flood and Coastal Committee and Thames Water to deliver the scheme, which will help reduce flood risk to all communities between Datchet and Teddington."