£1.5 million flood resilience scheme protecting over 300 homes and businesses is complete

The age of the beck stone and brickwork and the presence of invasive species had led to structural weaknesses along the channel. Wetter winters, drier summers and increased rainfall can worsen vulnerabilities and increase the risk of flooding. Without intervention, the risk of collapse could have resulted in significant flooding, potentially affecting many businesses and homes in the area.

The £1.5 million scheme was funded by the Environment Agency and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority with modelling undertaken by Mott MacDonald and construction carried out by Hinko Construction Limited. Work focused on repairing and upgrading the beck’s infrastructure to maintain its effectiveness in mitigating flood risk.

A key part of the restoration was the reuse of reclaimed brickwork to retain the historic character of the beck, with new materials only incorporated where necessary. Local traders played a role by providing access, facilitating work on their land and helping to procure materials.

While these works do not change the flood zone status of the area, they are essential in preserving current level of flood resilience, preventing costly flood damage and enhancing the city’s ability to adapt to climate change.

The completed works are expected to prevent approximately £15 million in flood-related damage and around 2,500 tonnes of CO2 emissions, which would be incurred in the cleanup of a flood event. Those emissions are more than ten times the amount produced during construction.

Alongside maintaining the flood resilience of the area, there are enhancements underway to improve the area for residents and wildlife. Bat boxes, public waste bins and a new public seating area on the corner of Bristol Street and Cross Stamford Street have been successfully installed. Upwards of 20 trees will be planted in the area later in 2025, and there are plans for a community-led arts installation focused on climate resilience to be commissioned and installed in the area in 2026.

Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, said:

“Leeds City Council is committed to improving and maintaining flood resilience across the city and I am delighted that the works at Sheepscar Beck have been successfully completed. Flood risk is one of the most direct impacts of climate change that our city faces, and the financial and carbon cost of cleanup means that schemes like this make a significant contribution to our net zero ambitions.

“This scheme forms part of our wider programme of flood alleviation works across Leeds, helping us manage both large rivers and smaller watercourses to safeguard our residents and businesses from the devastation flooding can bring.”

Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said:

“Here In West Yorkshire, we’ve felt the devastating impact of climate change first-hand, as flooding has become more damaging and frequent over recent years.

“By investing in essential defences to protect our communities and businesses, we’re building a more resilient region that’s fit for the future.

“We remain dedicated to working with our partners like Leeds City Council to build a greener, more secure West Yorkshire for future generations.”

Luke Williams, Environment Agency senior flood risk advisor, said:

“We understand the devastating impact flooding can have, which is why reducing the risk is our top priority.

 “Working alongside West Yorkshire Combined Authority, we are refurbishing assets along Sheepscar Beck to ensure they are in good condition and ready to respond when needed. Once completed, this will reduce the risk of flooding to over 250 businesses in Leeds city centre.

 “To find out if you are living in a flood risk area and for information about how to sign up for free flood warnings visit: Prepare for flooding: Protect yourself from future flooding - GOV.UK.”