Comment from Leader of Leeds City Council on £40million announced for flood defences

Councillor Judith Blake, leader of Leeds City Council, said:

“Funding to repair flood defences is to be welcomed as a first step. We’re keen to see the detail of exactly where and how this will be spent and how much will be available in Leeds so residents and businesses can be offered some reassurance.

“We anticipate that the cost of recovery from the floods will exceed the funds laid out by the government as the effects of the damage unfold in the coming days and weeks.

“With efforts still focusing on clear-up operations and getting support packages for residents and businesses ready as quickly as possible so they can get back on their feet, our message remains clear. Leeds needs the best possible, comprehensive flood defences.

“We are seeking urgent talks with the government about re-instating the flood defence scheme previously cancelled in 2011. This scheme would have given the city protection along the Aire between Woodlesford and Kirkstall. The extent of the devastation makes it perfectly clear that we need to take a longer term view than existing funding packages are offering. Although these deal with immediate aftermath and are much needed, we must have further significant investment so that Leeds has the flood defences that are appropriate for the UK’s third largest city.”