The Environment Agency is hosting two events where residents can view final designs for the Hebden Bridge Flood Alleviation Scheme, ask any questions and meet the project team.
Final designs for the Hebden Bridge Flood Alleviation Scheme will soon be revealed to residents, offering the local community an opportunity to view the detailed proposals and engage with the team behind the project. The Environment Agency has announced two public events where the designs will be displayed, providing a platform for residents to ask questions and share feedback before the scheme’s planning application is submitted.
The designs will be showcased at Hebden Bridge Town Hall on Thursday, 27 February, and Thursday, 6 March, from 12pm to 8pm. Residents are encouraged to drop in during these times to explore the plans and learn more about how the scheme aims to mitigate the persistent flood risks faced by the town.
“It’s now nearly 10 years since Storm Eva and 5 years since Storm Ciara caused significant flooding in the upper valley, but the risk is ever present, and we continue to work in partnership to minimise risk and build resilience.”
Scott Patient, Calderdale Council
The Hebden Bridge Flood Alleviation Scheme, a joint initiative between the Environment Agency and Calderdale Council, is designed to reduce the flood risk from the River Calder and Hebden Water. The proposed works include raising and strengthening river walls, installing glass panels, and raising barriers to preserve the iconic views for riverside residents while enhancing flood protection.
Jo Arnold, Calderdale Programme and Partnership Manager at the Environment Agency, expressed enthusiasm for sharing the plans with the community. She said, “We are really pleased to share our plans for the Hebden Bridge Flood Alleviation Scheme with the local community and we’d encourage all residents to attend to see what the final designs entail, ask questions and provide comment prior to our plans being submitted for planning approval.
“This scheme will play a key role in better protecting homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure across the town and supporting their long-term resilience against flooding.”
In addition to showcasing the designs, Environment Agency officers will provide practical advice on flood preparedness. Attendees can sign up for flood warnings and receive information on how to assess and reduce their flood risk. Despite the implementation of flood defences, the agency stresses that no measures can fully eliminate the risk of flooding, and individual preparedness remains vital.
Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Action and Housing, Councillor Scott Patient, highlighted the significance of the project. “It’s great news that the Hebden Bridge Flood Alleviation Scheme is reaching the final stages of development and crucial that we now move into delivery. I hope people take the time to find out more about the plans to better protect the town from flooding,” he said.
He added that nearly a decade after Storm Eva and five years after Storm Ciara caused widespread flooding in the area, the risk of future incidents remains a pressing concern. The council and its partners continue to work on building resilience and minimising flood risks.
The Environment Agency plans to submit the scheme’s planning application later this summer, with pre-construction preparation work anticipated to begin by the end of 2025. For additional information, residents can visit the Hebden Bridge Flood Information Centre on Valley Road, open on Mondays and Fridays from 10am to 2pm.
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