Construction of a multi-million pound scheme to protect thousands of homes and businesses in Hull from flooding from the Humber has been given the go ahead.
In the past 65 years, there have been three major tidal events in Hull, the last was in December 2013 when 264 properties were flooded due to the overtopping of the existing defences. During high tides, water levels have the potential to rise to around 1 – 3m above some parts of the city.
The new £42 million flood alleviation scheme, approved by Hull’s planning committee earlier this month on the fifth anniversary of the tidal surge that caused devastation to the city, has now had final sign off from the Secretary of State for the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.
Led by the Environment Agency, the Humber Hull Frontage Improvement Scheme will upgrade tidal flood defences at eight locations along the estuary foreshore, including at St Andrew’s Quay and Victoria Dock Village.
Floods Minister Thérèse Coffey said “I am delighted that the owners of 113,000 homes and businesses in and around Hull will benefit from a fully government funded flood defence improvements which will help for many decades to come.
“This new flood defence scheme costing £42 million from taxpayers’ money has been well supported by the City Council and a number of other key partners, showing what can be achieved when we work together towards a common goal.”
The defences will provide a 1 in 200 year standard of protection and will reduce tidal risk for 113,000 homes and businesses.
It will see more than 7 kilometres of tidal flood defences along the Humber estuary improved.
The design of the flood defences will include some areas of glass panels to maintain a view of the waterfront and recessed sections to display artistic works.
Opportunities for public art and community involvement will also be integrated into the scheme, at areas including Victoria Dock Village and St Andrew’s Quay Retail park.
Helen Tattersdale, Project Manager at the Environment Agency said:
“We are delighted that the Humber Hull Frontages scheme has been given final approval and look forward to making progress on the ground early in the New Year.
“This £42 million investment is great news for the city as it will allow us to better protect thousands of homes and businesses. We will continue to keep residents and businesses affected by our work informed about the scheme at every stage of its development.”
