APPROVAL has been given for a new plan for bolstering York’s flood defences to move into consultation.

The long-awaited draft Flood Risk Management strategy has been presented to City of York Council, written in conjunction with key partners including the Environment Agency and Yorkshire Water.

It states that millions need to be spent on bolstering York’s flood defences and proposes a list of meas - ures including schemes to improve defences along the River Ouse and River Foss, such as upgrades to the Foss Barrier pumps, the renovation of flood gates and improvements to existing flood banks.

Cabinet approved the draft strategy after it was presented by Cllr Dave Merrett, cabinet member for environmental services.

Proposed spending includes an estimated £2 million on an upgrade of the Foss Barrier and pumping station, which protects properties alongside the River Foss by preventing floodwaters from backing up the river from the Ouse.

Another £3.5 million is needed for an appraisal and replacement of the Burdyke and Holgate pumping station, £1.5 million for the restoration of the Clifton Ings barrier bank and £5 million on delivering measures to reduce the impact of flooding in unprotected areas of York, such as Bishopthorpe, Acaster Malbis, Fulford, Clementhorpe, Naburn, Kings Staith and Tower Street and Nether Poppleton.

Cllr Merrett said: “The surface water systems are pushed to their limit.”

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