£38m Derby Flood Defence Construction Begins

Significant infrastructure investments are underway across parts of the UK to improve water supply and flood defenses. Yorkshire Water is starting a £60,000 project to replace water mains in Hebden Bridge as part of a wider £406 million regional program to enhance water infrastructure and reduce leaks. In Derby, a £38 million contract has been awarded for the Derby Riverside flood defense project, which includes building new flood walls, gates, and creating a green corridor to manage floodwaters, with demolition and construction slated to begin soon. This scheme is part of the larger Our City, Our River initiative aimed at protecting the city from extreme weather events and encouraging urban regeneration. Similarly, in Padiham, flood defense construction will resume in 2026 with new walls and embankments planned along the River Calder, aiming to reduce flood risk for 160 homes and businesses by winter 2028. These projects reflect ongoing efforts by local councils and agencies to enhance resilience against flooding and improve infrastructure reliability.