Agenda item

To receive an update from the Executive Manager (Flood Risk and Climate Resilience) on the implementation of the Local Flood Risk Management Strategy over the last 12 months and the measures set out for future years.

The Chair introduced the item, highlighting that the remit of the Scrutiny Board (Infrastructure, Investment & Inclusive Growth) requires members to receive an annual update on the Council’s local flood risk management strategy.

Those in attendance for this item were:

·  Cllr Helen Hayden (Executive Member)

·  Gary Bartlett (Chief Officer, Transportation and Highways)

·  Jonathan Moxon (Executive Manager – Flood Risk & Climate Resilience)

·  Vanessa Allen (Principal Engineer)

Cllr Hayden introduced the item, highlighting the national recognition for the approach to flood risk management in Leeds. She thanked the team for their dedication through a “relentlessly” wet year during which the city has experienced multiple storms.

Jonathan Moxon delivered a presentation to members highlighting the following issues:

-  Changing patterns of extreme weather events and increased levels of rainfall.

-  The number of incidents reported to the Flood Risk Management team between January 2023 and January 2024.

-  Engagement with planning applications.

-  Progress to date with the implementation of flood risk management schemes including FAS2.

-  A video of residents presenting their reactions to the Otley Flood Alleviation Scheme.

-  Progress at Farnley Wood Beck, Sheepscar Beck and Wortley Beck.

-  Nature-based solutions to flooding.

-  The role of the Aire Resilience Company.

Members welcomed the work being carried out in the city and extended their thanks to all those involved.

Councillors sought further information about the impact of new housing developments on surface water and ‘run off.’

Jonathan Moxon assured members that his team works very closely with planning colleagues, including those in planning enforcement. He highlighted the advice provided to developers about measures to ensure effective water management during the build process.

Board members sought assurances about the risk to the city of underground water management systems and queried who would be responsible for future maintenance of these systems.

Jonathan confirmed that the preference in the flood risk management team is visible measures to manage water. However, developers often prefer tanks, crates and oversized pipes. A management company will typically have responsibility for the long-term maintenance of a surface water system. The Council would be reluctant to adopt underwater management systems due to the increased risks posed by such works.

Jonathan confirmed that recruitment and retention of specialist staff such as engineers remains challenging.

Members expressed frustration about the difficulty in being able to contact Yorkshire Water directly. In response, Jonathan noted the ongoing work to strengthen relationships with Yorkshire Water. He informed the Scrutiny Board that the Council and the Environment Agency are also exploring the potential for a more formalised partnership approach to flood risk management with Yorkshire Water. 

Referring to several examples highlighted by members, Jonathan noted the challenge of balancing local interventions with the potential impact on the wider water catchment area.

Members sought more information about the communication strategies adopted by the team and the challenge of ensuring flood risk management remains a priority for residents and businesses in Leeds.

Gary Bartlett reiterated the pace of change in delivering flood alleviation schemes in Leeds over the last 15 years.

RESOLVED: Members reviewed and commented upon the implementation of the Flood Risk Management Strategy.