Fears mount over flood defence plans at Sheffield beauty spot

Concerns have been raised over plans to build flood defences '˜taller than three double decker buses' at a Sheffield nature spot.
The Rivelin Valley in Sheffield where new flood defences are being proposedThe Rivelin Valley in Sheffield where new flood defences are being proposed
The Rivelin Valley in Sheffield where new flood defences are being proposed

Residents and campaign groups have raised the alarm after Sheffield Council launched a consultation on plans to build flood defences in the Rivelin Valley.

According to Rivelin Valley Conservation Group, the embankments ‘could be taller than three double-decker buses stacked and longer than 10 double-decker buses placed end-to-end’.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Sheffield Council has downplayed concerns, stating that a public consultation on city-wide proposals remains open until the end of October. The council adds that Sheffield is in fact ‘leading the way’ after being granted £83 million from central Government to get some of the best flood defences in the country.

Graham Appleby, chair of Rivelin Valley Conservation Group, said: “We could see massive 11-metre tall embankments across Rivelin Valley and many people are not happy about that.

“We do, of course, support any reduction in flood risk. But we would urge the council to look into other options as this could have a devastating effect on the surroundings and wildlife in the area.”

Coun Bryan Lodge, cabinet member for environment, said that the council had never stated embankments could be up to 11 metres high.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

He said: “The consultation, which runs until the end of October, contains a number of options for flood storage areas.

“While these options do include embankments that can store flood water, the height and scale will be shaped by the feedback that we receive through the consultation process.

“The posters showing embankment details produced by the Rivelin Valley Conservation Group don’t represent the council’s plans.”

He added: “We’re pleased that Sheffield has been selected as a pilot city for the biggest investment in flood defences outside of London. We will lead the way.”

To take part in the consultation, visit: www.floodprotectionsheffield.com