West Yorkshire communities to benefit from flood defence investment
Hebden Bridge has been highlighted as one of 1,000 projects to receive a boost in 2021/22
Last updated 29th Jul 2021
Communities in West Yorkshire prone to flooding are set to benefit from a multi-million pound investment in flood defences.
In 2021/22, £125.7m will be spent across Yorkshire, giving a boost to 150 schemes.
One of those highlighted is Hebden Bridge, which was battered by flooding in both 2015 and 2020.
186 homes and 200 businesses should have a significantly reduced flood risk, while also having more time to respond to flooding incidents.
£4.4m in Hebden Bridge will be pumped into improved river and canal defences, as well as improved drainage.
It will aim to protect the community from river flooding on the Calder and Hebden Water, as well as the Rochdale Canal. It will also prevent, or reduce, surface water flooding in the centre and upper sections of the town.
Environment Agency Flood Risk Management Advisor, Christian Merriman said: “We are working with Calderdale Council to design and build a Flood Alleviation Scheme for Hebden Bridge.
“The scheme will reduce flood risk from the rivers, the canal and surface water, and will consist of; raising and strengthening river walls; improving protection to riverside properties; surface water drainage improvements and pumping; and a canal overflow. In some locations the scheme will use glass panels and raising barriers to minimise intrusion on river views.”
“No amount of hard engineering will stop the inundation we suffered on Boxing Day 2015"
Hebden Bridge Flood Warden, Andrew Entwistle said: “Our role is both reactive and proactive in that we not only respond when there are flood warnings issued, but in between we prepare and organise in order to prevent loss of life and minimise the damage caused by flooding.
“In our proactive role we meet local folk who we know are at risk of flooding and advise on resilience measures in homes and businesses. Be prepared is our message.
“No amount of hard engineering will stop the inundation we suffered on Boxing Day 2015, however it will reduce the damage as the overtopping will be much later and stop sooner than before. It will be effective and reduce the stress of many residents and business owners.”