Julian supports York’s Local Economy following the recent flooding
January 21, 2016
During a debate on the recent winter flooding, Julian reminded Members of Parliament that York remains open for business.
The House of Commons held a debate yesterday on supporting local authorities after Storm Eva, which overwhelmed the Foss Barrier on Boxing Day. During the debate Julian asked “is it not also true that many businesses have not been flooded, but are hugely affected because the wider regional economy is affected? Is it not right that we send out a clear message that Yorkshire is open for business? My area and that of the Honourable Member for York Central are certainly open for business.”
Julian also urged the Minister for the Northern Powerhouse, James Wharton, that “In the spirit of bringing people, Departments and local authorities together, does the Minister not agree that, when we are talking about spending money on flood defences, we have to look at the whole catchment area? That might mean spending money to defend York outside the city in the wider catchment area.”
The Minister agreed that working together was “an important point and will of course form part of our considerations”. The Government has provided £50 million for households and businesses who were affected by Storm Eva. A further £40 million has been allocated to repair and improve flood defenses following the storm, of which £10 million has been reserved to upgrade the Foss Barrier. The other £30 million will be spent repairing defenses on the rivers Ouse, Wharfe, Calder, Aire, and Derwent.
Following the debate, Julian said “We must continue to bang the drum for York’s local economy and remind people that the city and surrounding villages are open for business. Sadly some outstanding issues still need to be resolved. I have raised the issue of greater telecommunications resilience with the Yorkshire Flooding Envoy, and will be holding BT to account over this issue. I am also making sure that York benefits from additional investment so that our flood defences are future proofed from further extreme weather events in the years to come.”
If you are a resident of York Outer and have been affected by the flooding, please don’t hesitate to contact Julian on julian.sturdy.mp@parliament.uk and he will do whatever he can to help.
