Reducing the flood risk

Burnley Road closed between Hebden Bridge and Todmorden, due to flooding

Environment Agency contractors have spent the last seven months constructing a new culvert screen on Ibbot Royd Clough where it passes under Keighley Road.

This will significantly reduce the risk of blockages which have, in the past, caused the watercourse to overtop and flood the area.

A comprehensive new drainage system has also been installed to catch water cascading down Keighley Road in periods of heavy rain and divert it into the watercourse.

The new works have already been given a test last month when very heavy rain fell on to already saturated ground in Calderdale. The new drains and culvert screen coped with the deluge as they had been designed to do.

Leader of Calderdale Council, Coun Tim Swift, said: “It is very pleasing to see the Nutclough scheme complete. This is the latest milestone in the council and Environment Agency’s joint work to reduce flood risk across the upper Calder Valley. It’s reassuring that the work is already making a difference and protecting our local communities.”

And community flood containers also proved to be a massive success. There are five containers spread along the valley from Mytholmroyd to Sandbed, containing basic equipment for use if and when a flood arises.

These containers are at Mytholmroyd, off Midgely Road, rear of the Picture House and Bridge Lane car park in Hebden, Callis by the ATC and Sandbed, at the side of Murt’s.

They contain sand bags, plastic sheeting, shovels and spades, rakes, brushes and squeegees.

A spokesperson for Hebden Royd Flood Group said: “We know it is not possible to stop floods from occurring however by working together using the equipment we have we should be able to minimise the damage.”

The group is a small band of upper Calder Valley residents who came together following the disastrous floods of 2012.

They were determined to be better prepared for the future - most recently a programme of clearing blocked and full drains around Hebden Bridge town centre and along Market Street.

The group is always on the lookout for new members.

If you are interested in joining, email [email protected]