City's flood defences back on track

28/04/2011

Home insurance customers have been afforded some relief as it was announced that major improvements to York's flood defences are back on track after the cost of the scheme was cut.

Government cuts announced in January hit the proposals to strengthen and raise embankments, which protect about 550 homes in the Leeman Road area from the River Ouse.

The Environment Agency, which fears climate change will increase flooding risks throughout the century, revealed that the scheme would be badly affected by a 41 per cent cut in funding that the region receives from the Government.

The cost estimate for the flood defences upgrade was up to £6.5m but York council leader Andrew Waller said this figure was reduced to £3.2m.

In November 2000, York's flood defences were nearly overtopped by water from the Ouse and about 550 homes were at risk.