Last Friday Graham Stuart MP chaired the first-ever meeting of the River Hull Board, which will supervise the implementation of the pioneering River Hull Integrated Catchment Strategy (RHICS).
The RHICS marks the first time a joint strategy has been drawn up by partner organisations and agencies with responsibility for the River Hull. Key aspects of the programme include removing sunken vessels to improve water flow, raising the river banks at key points and upgrading a number of pumping stations. The biggest project will involve modifying the use of the Tidal Barrier in Hull.
The River Hull Board, which will meet twice a year, has been established to advise on and endorse the work of the Programme Board responsible for implementing the RHICS. It is made up of a wide variety of people, harnessing expertise from agencies such as the Environment Agency, Natural England and Yorkshire Water, as well as local politicians working on a cross-party basis including Hull North MP Diana Johnson.
Graham has been involved in the development of the RHICS from the outset and chaired the River Hull Advisory Board which approved its adoption in summer 2015.
Reflecting on Friday’s meeting, he said,
“I enjoyed chairing the first meeting of the River Hull Board and discussing the latest progress that has been made towards implementing the River Hull Integrated Catchment Strategy. The Strategy encompasses a series of public works worth tens of millions of pounds, all targeted at reducing the level of flood risk for people in Hull and the East Riding.
“Improving the river defence systems is critical for our area, which is so vulnerable to the risk of devastating flooding from both the river and the North Sea. I’m very grateful to all my colleagues on the Board for their participation, and to all the agencies involved for their hard work and cooperation. Together, I’m confident we will ensure a successful outcome.”
Councillor Symon Fraser, East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s portfolio holder for asset management, housing and environment, said:
“Having a long term management strategy for the River Hull and its tributaries is essential to the wellbeing of our residents and the success of our local businesses. I am pleased to be part of this board.”
