UK: Leeds Flood Defence Scheme to Protect Yorkshire Economy

A major new flood defence in Leeds, which will protect hundreds of homes and businesses and safeguard the future economy, has begun construction.

The new £50 million defences are the first of their kind for the area. In total, they will protect over 150 businesses and reduce the potential disruption caused by flooding for 3,000 city centre flats.

The scheme includes new gates to control the flow of the river Aire, removing the island between the river and the nearby canal, and building new raised defences.

Almost 19,000 jobs are estimated to be created within the protected area over the next 10 years, so the new defences will play a vital role in protecting the Yorkshire economy.

Funded by £35 million worth of government funding, together with contributions from both Leeds City Council and the private sector, this scheme is an example of the success of partnership funding in creating new defences to make the country more resilient.

[mappress]

Press Release, April 25, 2014