Mytholmroyd’s flood alleviation scheme opens

Mytholmroyd’s new flood alleviation scheme, providing greater protection to 400 homes and businesses, has been officially opened.

Over £41 million has been invested in the new defences, as part of partnership working to make the village more resilient to the impacts of climate change.

Funding was secured for the scheme following the devastating floods of Boxing Day 2015 when 2,781 homes and 1,008 businesses were affected throughout Calderdale.

The Environment Agency has worked in partnership with Calderdale Council and alongside members of Calderdale Partnership Board to provide Mytholmroyd with the best possible flood protection.

Design and construction was completed by VBA Joint Venture.

“VBA – a joint venture comprising VolkerStevin, Boskalis Westminster and SNC Lavalin’s Atkins business – is proud to have had the opportunity to deliver this significant work, and I would like to thank everyone involved for their commitment, dedication and collaborative approach shown throughout,” said Mark Cronshaw, Framework Director for VBA.

The scheme included the construction of new, raised and improved flood walls, the relocation of Caldene Bridge, widening of the river channel at two key locations and flood proofing of many buildings next to the River Calder and Cragg Brook.

The project is being officially opened by the chair of the Environment Agency, Emma Howard Boyd, and West Yorkshire Mayor, Tracy Brabin.