Work on the scheme started in May 2021 in Bishopthorpe to construct a 180 metre flood defence wall, incorporating a six metre-deep steel barrier underground; a floodgate and water flow mechanism to prevent river water from backing up into the drainage system.
In addition, 50 trees have been planted locally, with plans in place for over a hundred more and hedging to compensate for the 18 trees which had to be removed to build the flood wall.
This work forms part of the £45 million York Flood Alleviation Scheme, which is made up of 18 smaller ‘cells’ like this one.
Last year, a record £5.2 billion government investment to create around 2,000 new flood and coastal defences and better protect 336,000 properties across England was announced.
Over £146 million has been allocated in 2021-22 to 150 flood schemes across Yorkshire.
Chris Ashcroft at the Environment Agency said: “The recent flooding in Yorkshire highlights the importance of projects like this one in Bishopthorpe, which will help make York more resilient to climate change and better protect 2,000 homes and businesses from flooding. We would like to thank residents for their patience and cooperation while we have been building these vital community flood defences.”
