New floods ‘would end town as tourist destination’

Former Calderdale councillor Barry Greenwood claimed yesterday that Hebden Bridge in the Calder Valley would be “finished” if shops, homes and businesses were badly flooded again – a claim rejected by local politicians.

Mr Greenwood said people and companies hit by last year’s floods would be unable to afford a repeat as insurance excesses had risen sharply while cash savings had been exhausted.

“Quite frankly, I think the valley will shut it doors [if flooded again]. A lot of people have no insurance cover and no money as they have used all their savings.

“Residents without insurance will just up sticks. We will end up with no businesses within the valley. Everybody is walking on eggshells.”

Today Mr Greenwood was presenting a 3,000-name petition on behalf of the Upper Calder Valley Flood Prevention Action Group to 10 Downing Street. It calls for drains, gullies and waterways to be improved to a high standard to ensure the valley is “restored to a safe, secure, flood-free environment”.

Mr Greenwood, a semi-retired businessman and former nightclub owner, admits his views are pessimistic.

“I do paint a gloomy picture. If it does flood again the people that are in it have nothing left because they all spent it on the last one – they will move out, definitely.”

But his views are not shared by local political leaders who are emphasising resilience and community spirit.

Yesterday, as Calderdale Council and partners urged people to “be prepared” for future flooding, council leader Tim Swift said the authority was “committed to a long-term programme of work to minimise the impact of future flooding”.

A council spokesman said £3m had been spent on repairs but a huge sum had to be found to improve flood defences. “During the next 12 months, further minor works will be carried out across the valley and a longer-term flood investment plan will be developed, which will set out an eight- to 10-year plan of investment required by partners to reduce the impact of future flooding. Current indications are that around £42m will be needed to deliver this.”