'We refuse to give up' West Yorks leaders pledge to build a flood resilient future
The scars of the devastating Boxing Day floods of 2015 are still felt across West Yorkshire.
From submerged high streets to people bailing out their flooded homes, the memories of that day are as strong as ever.
And every time the rain falls and the river levels rise the region holds its collective breath that they will not be forced to relive that shameful day.
Today leaders across West Yorkshire came together not just to remember the heart- breaking scenes but to renew a promise.
They made pledge that next time the waters rise, West Yorkshire will be stronger and more resilient than ever to flood risk.
Coun Jonathan Pryor, deputy leader of Leeds City Council, said: “We’re not just looking back on a flood - we’re really remembering a moment that changed our city.
“It was a moment that tested us all in Leeds and across West Yorkshire.
“The River Aire become something entirely different and became a huge force of nature reminding us how fragile we can be and how strong our communities are.
“At its peak it became 360 tonnes of water tearing at high speed through the city centre of Leeds compared to the usual 15.
“Leeds Station was closed for two days - if that hadn’t happened on Boxing Day 27,000 people would have been stranded in the city centre.
“When the water receded Leeds looked like a different city. We had 1,000 volunteers step forward, neighbours helping neighbours.”
He spoke about the work of the Leeds Flood Alleviation Scheme over the last decade to support the city and added: “We can’t hold back every river but we can be ready and resilient.
“Let’s not forget the strength of our defences doesn’t come from concrete or steel.
“It comes from the people, the business, the people who refuse to give up on their homes and communities.”
The pledge sets out the region’s ambition to shape national policy and unlock investment for innovative flood solutions and resilient infrastructure.
It also commits to embedding water and climate management into every aspect of planning as well as empowering communities.
But at the heart of the promise is partnership to “build a future where communities are safer, stronger and better prepared”.
Robin Tuddenham, chief executive of Calderdale Council spoke about the impact the floods of 2015 had on the region at the event in Halifax.
But he warned: “We should not forget the impact of those near misses as well. 16 points when the flood sirens had to go off in one year.
“We have had 6,000 properties effected.
“Behind every single property and business impacted there will be a family, a community that has had to rebuild and recover.
“We can never be complacent.”
Emma Hardy MP, Minister for Water and Flooding, added: “Together we can help create a thriving and resilient region.”