By Kirklees Climate TV –

Residents of Hebden Bridge will have the opportunity to view the final designs for the much-anticipated Hebden Bridge Flood Alleviation Scheme at two public drop-in events hosted by the Environment Agency.

The sessions will take place at Hebden Bridge Town Hall on Thursday, 27th February, and Thursday, 6th March, from 12 pm to 8 pm.

Attendees will be able to see the detailed designs, meet the project team, and ask any questions ahead of the main planning application submission to Calderdale Council.

Developed in partnership with Calderdale Council, the scheme aims to better protect 400 homes and businesses from the persistent risk of flooding.

The proposed flood defences will include raising and reinforcing river walls, installing glass panels, and elevating barriers to minimise visual impact on the town’s distinctive riverside views.

Sharing with the local community

Jo Arnold, Calderdale Programme and Partnership Manager at the Environment Agency, expressed enthusiasm for engaging with the community on the final plans: “We are really pleased to share our plans for the Hebden Bridge Flood Alleviation Scheme with the local community and encourage residents to attend the events to see what the final designs entail, ask questions, and provide feedback before we submit them for planning approval.

“This scheme will play a key role in better protecting homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure across the town, helping to strengthen long-term resilience against flooding.”

Practical Flood Advice

Environment Agency officers will also be on hand to offer practical advice on flood preparedness and assist residents in signing up for flood warnings.

While flood defences provide significant protection, the agency stresses the importance of remaining vigilant and taking proactive measures to manage flood risk.

Residents can check their flood risk and sign up for warnings at https://www.gov.uk/sign-up-for-flood-warnings.

Final Stages

Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Action and Housing, Cllr Scott Patient, highlighted the importance of the project: “It’s great news that the Hebden Bridge Flood Alleviation Scheme is reaching its final stages of development, and it’s crucial that we now move into the delivery phase.

“I hope people take the time to learn more about the plans to protect the town from flooding.

“It’s now nearly ten years since Storm Eva and five years since Storm Ciara caused significant flooding in the upper valley, but the risk remains ever-present.

“We continue to work in partnership to minimise this risk and build resilience.”

Planning Application Date

The planning application is expected to be submitted later this summer, with pre-construction preparation work anticipated to begin in late 2025.

For those seeking further information, the Hebden Bridge Flood Information Centre on Valley Road is open on Mondays and Fridays from 10 am to 2 pm.

Residents can also contact the project team via email at HebdenBridgeFAS@environment-agency.gov.uk.