New flood defences in place to help fire station go with the flow

FLOOD defences aimed at protecting the heart of York from future deluges and ensuring access to the city centre’s fire station were unveiled yesterday.

The new scheme at Peckitt Street is intended to reduce the risk of flooding to homes in the street and nearby Friar’s Terrace, as well as maintaining access to other properties and the fire station in Clifford Street.

The 70,000 project was carried out by York City Council , with the Yorkshire Regional Flood Defence Committee contributing 35,000 towards the cost.

A new wall, complete with flood gates, has been created across the end of Peckitt Street and will remove the need for temporary sandbags and pumps when the River Ouse rises up to 14ft feet 6in above summer levels.

Specialist council staff carried out the stonework to ensure that the defences blend in with the surroundings.

Station manager at the fire brigade’s Clifford Street base, Alan Bell, said: “During previous flooding events, the station has experienced significant damage and disruption, especially to our office area.

“Improving the flood defences at Peckitt Street will greatly reduce this disruption, enabling us to provide the community with a better level of service when flooding is occurring.”