IT seems that the Government grant awarded is not enough to repair and maintain the flood defences in York to safeguard homes and businesses after the devastating floods of 2015 (The Press, August 9).

I seem to remember many years ago that the River Ouse was regularly dredged and the sand etc from the river bed was then collected by local builders.

Would this not be another option for the council to reinstate rather than keep on raising the flood barriers?

This has probably been suggested before at a meeting but dismissed.

Surely it would be a saving in the long term and give peace of mind to the homeowners and businesses who must feel trepidation every time we have days of rain.

It’s just a thought and actually common sense.

S McClaren, Boroughbridge Road, York