Comment on visit to Leeds Flood Alleviation Scheme today by Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

Leader of Leeds City Council Councillor Judith Blake said:

“The comments today by the Secretary of State were a little disappointing as they offered no new reassurance or commitment to our residents and businesses that the city will get the comprehensive flood defences it urgently needs. The reference to additional funding for the next phase of the Leeds Flood Alleviation Scheme is approximately half of what it is expected to cost, and the timescale of up to 2021 is too long and will leave parts of the city vulnerable to flooding for many years.

"With many of our residents and businesses still suffering as a result the devastation caused by the impact of Storm Eva last Christmas, we are determined to keep pushing for the level of protection we need as a key economic driver of the Northern Powerhouse to be put in place in Leeds as soon as possible.”

ENDS

For further information contact:

Leeds City Council communications

Tel: 0113 395 0244

Email: communicationsteam@leeds.gov.uk