Adapting to flood risk at scale in Leeds

Following a number of flooding events in Leeds, including the widespread impacts of Storm Eva in 2015, the Leeds Flood Alleviation Scheme was created to reduce flood risk to homes, businesses and communities in Leeds city centre and along the River Aire.

The scheme includes a combination of natural flood management and traditional engineering. More than 400,000 trees have been planted in the river catchment area, and almost 300 hectares of land have been managed to improve the quality and absorption capabilities of the soil, to help draw more excess water into the ground.

Phase 1 of the scheme is designed to protect 3,000 homes and 500 businesses, focusing on the removal of barriers that had previously been built in the river, and introduction of weirs that can be lowered when water levels are high. Phase 2 is designed to protect a further 1,000 homes and nearly 500 businesses, and includes the construction of flood walls and a flood storage area, complimented with woodland creation and the introduction of leaky dams that help to slow the flow of water along the river.

This scale of work was made possible via a strong partnership between Leeds City Council and the Environment Agency, with support from many other partners and advisors. The scheme has also led to the creation of the Aire Resilience Company, which is a community interest company that creates a mechanism for bringing more finance into natural flood management. The aim is to increase the effectiveness of flood alleviation measures in Leeds whilst improving conditions for nature to recover and thrive in the area.

Photography: Hopgrove Productions Ltd