Motorists warned of road closures in Hull as work starts on flood defences

Structural experts and the Environment Agency say 39 sites on the river Hull defences, which protect more than 60,000 homes and businesses, are at risk of failing within the next two years.

Commuters are being warned to prepare for congestion at peak times and plan an alternative route, ahead of work starting on Bankside on February 19.

That will continue until May and will be followed by closures on two sections of Wincolmlee for further work, which won’t be wrapped up until September.

Outside London, Hull has the highest number of properties at risk of flooding in a single urban area.

Work started last April and has been completed on a third of the sites.

Project manager Brendan Sharkey said: “We want to advise commuters to start planning ahead now and be prepared for congestion at peak times in the city. Where possible, alternative travel routes and methods should also be considered.”