Major step forward for Fulford Flood defences
A planning application is set to be submitted in a major step forward for the development of a joined-up plan for Fulford flood defences.
Senior councillors will receive a report at a meeting on the 15th December requesting approval to submit a planning application and procure a contractor to carry out the construction phase.
Following extensive local investigations and assessments, a preferred option for a joined-up flood defence solution has been identified and would see high river levels in the River Ouse from Germany Beck and Tunnel Drain isolated. A pumping station would maintain lower river levels in these watercourses, directly protecting 43 properties from current flood risks and the impacts of climate change, ensure that more than 300 properties are able to access Fordlands Road and will add further resilience to the A19 flood works safeguarding more than 16,000 daily journeys on the A19 in times of flood.
Local councillor Keith Aspden has long campaigned with local residents to secure funding for additional flood defences in Fulford. Last year’s Council budget proposals agreed a £2 million investment in the delivery of a joined up flood scheme, which in total has unlocked a £5.3 million budget made up from Council’s capital funding, Environment Agency and Defra.
Since then the project has been progressing at pace, with design works, a wide range of surveys and assessments taking place to support the planning permissions needed to progress. Following approval by the Council’s Executive, a planning application for the project will be submitted, after which a contractor can be procured.
Liberal Democrat local councillor for Fulford and Heslington, Cllr Keith Aspden, commented:
“The frequent floods over many years have over and over highlighted the need for an improved and joined-up flood plan for Fulford. This plan must protect Germany Beck as well as the Fordlands Road and Fordlands Crescent communities, in addition to the thousands of motorists on the A19. I am delighted that a £5.3 million funding package has been drawn together to make this crucial campaign a reality.
“Alongside local residents and parish councillors, I have campaigned for years to deliver a solution for the benefit of the local community. This is a major step towards delivering that solution which will protect hundreds of properties in the area, finally working towards ending the significant challenges that frequent floods have brought to our community.
“As the project progresses resident views and involvement will be crucial, including through a planning consultation process, so further local meetings to update residents on the progress of the project will take place early next year.”