A key flood alleviation scheme was officially unveiled in east Leeds yesterday (Aug 5) as part of a £4.75m programme to benefit local economy and environment.
The scheme, in the Wyke Beck valley, will work to protect homes in the area with a new flooding control structure and flood storage in Killingbeck Meadows Local Nature Reserve.
The partnership between Leeds City council, the Environment Agency and West Yorkshire Combined Authority will bring increased protection to properties downstream of Killingbeck Meadows, reducing the flood risk and supporting development of new brownfield housing, job creation and inclusive growth.
"Residents will also benefit from the enhanced green space which is so important for our health and well-being."
New ponds and seasonal wetlands will provide natural flood storage, while boosting wildlife, woodland and wildflower, following planting set to take place over the coming months. And this enhanced green space will also benefit from over 8000 trees planted across the Wyke Beck catchment.
£2.6m in funding for the project came through the Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership (LEP), delivered by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, through the Leeds City Region Growth Deal.
Councillor Mohammed Rafique, Executive Member for Environment and active lifestyles said:
“We are delighted that the scheme at Killingbeck Meadows is now complete. This will undoubtedly bring greater reassurance to families and businesses downstream who have experienced the devastating effects of flooding first-hand.
“I would like to personally thank everyone who has been part of its development and delivery. The extent of partnership working has been truly phenomenal and it is down to the creativity and collaboration of the people involved that has led to such a rich and multi-beneficial programme of works. It will make a real difference to the community in east Leeds in many different ways.”
Image: Leeds City Council
