Leeds Consults on Updated Flood Risk Management Strategy

Residents and businesses invited to provide feedback on city’s flood resilience plans

Leeds City Council has launched a public consultation on its latest Local Flood Risk Management Strategy, which sets out the city’s approach to managing flood risk in the coming years. The updated strategy reflects progress made since the previous version published in 2018 and outlines plans to enhance flood resilience across Leeds.

Background and achievements

The council’s first flood risk management strategy was published in 2012. Since then, Leeds City Council, working in partnership with other organisations, has implemented measures to reduce flooding risk to an estimated 5,589 properties. A key project was the £200 million Leeds Flood Alleviation Scheme, delivered between 2017 and 2024, alongside several smaller initiatives across the city.

These efforts have contributed to what the council describes as the strongest flood resilience Leeds has experienced to date.

Focus of the new strategy

The latest strategy replaces the 2018 version and highlights several priorities for flood risk management, including:

• Protecting green spaces and infrastructure using innovative technology
• Preparing for the impacts of climate change on flood risk
• Supporting residents and businesses to prepare for and recover from flooding events
• Strengthening partnerships across the city to address flood-related challenges

The strategy aims to ensure Leeds remains resilient to flooding as climate conditions evolve.

Council statement and consultation details

Councillor Peter Carlill, Leeds City Council’s executive member for transport and planning, commented on the strategy: “We can be extremely proud of the work we have delivered in partnership across Leeds to deliver major infrastructure and many projects which is keeping our city safer from the risk of flooding. But we cannot be complacent, because we can never be fully protected from flooding and we are all too aware of the devastation it can cause. Our latest flood risk management strategy builds on the work we have done so far and ensures we remain resilient into the future as we continue to adapt to the challenges of climate change.”

The council is inviting residents and businesses to view the draft strategy and submit their views by Friday 4 September 2026. Feedback will be considered before the final version is agreed later in 2026.

Further information and the consultation documents are available on the council’s dedicated webpage: Leeds Flood Risk Management Strategy Consultation.