Flood defences repaired in Todmorden ahead of heavy rain
The Environment Agency says defences were damaged following Storm Ciara back in February.
Emergency works to strengthen a wall which is structurally part of Todmorden Market Hall is being carried out yesterday (28/10) ahead of predicted heavy rain today.
The Environment Agency says the wall was damaged during the devastating flooding amid Storm Ciara last February and a team will be moving building materials on to the site throughout the day to re-enforce a section of it which is structurally part of the market hall.
The agency says the “essential” measures are being taken to make sure that the wall is robust to help better protect the town ahead of the forecast for heavy rain expected to fall in Calderdale from today.
Jo Arnold, senior flood risk advisor for Calderdale with the Environment Agency, said the work was precautionary due to the heavy rain that is forecast towards the end of the week.
“We need to make sure that the flood defences that protect Todmorden are as robust as possible,” she said.
Additionally, as part of an ongoing programme of repairs, from November 3 interlocking concrete blocks will be also be temporarily installed against the flood wall to provide further resilience to defences in time for winter.
This work will take about two weeks to complete and a nearby pedestrian footpath will be diverted while the works are undertaken to ensure the safety of passers-by, said Ms Arnold.
Environment Agency officers will carry out regular inspections to ensure the safety of the wall whilst long-term proposals are being developed.