Comment on government commitment to additional flood defences for Leeds

Leader of Leeds City Council Councillor Judith Blake said:

“I’m pleased the government appears to have listened to demands for a Leeds flood defence scheme. However there are still many unanswered questions, not least when will it be delivered ? Leeds residents and businesses will want a firm timeframe putting in place as soon as possible, especially as the current lack of certainty is seeing companies close and leading to the loss of jobs.

“There are also questions about how the initial £150million for Leeds, York, Calder Valley, Carlisle and Cumbria will be allocated. This figure contrasts with the £297million previously invested in the Thames Valley area alone, and the original estimate of £180m for the previously cancelled 2011 Leeds scheme.

“We will keep the pressure on government to make sure Leeds businesses and residents get the flood defences they need as soon as possible.”

ENDS

Leeds City Council communications

Tel: 0113 395 0244

Email: communicationsteam@leeds.gov.uk