Richmond MP Rishi Sunak has visited Stokesley to learn more about the town’s new £3.7m flood alleviation scheme.
Once complete, the scheme will improve protection to 509 properties and provide £46 million of economic benefits over the next 50 years.
During the visit, Mr Sunak’s was shown around areas of the town that will benefit from the scheme by representatives from the Environment Agency.
Jamie Fletcher, Environment Agency, area operations manager for the North East, said: “We were pleased to be given the opportunity to show Mr Sunak around the areas of Stokesley that will widely benefit from the new flood alleviation acheme, and to demonstrate the level of investment, development and commitment the Environment Agency is delivering to the town.
“The defence will be a vital asset for the local people, businesses and the environment around Stokesley – helping to protect them from the devastating effects of flooding.”
Mr Sunak, said: “Stokesley’s 1970s-built flood defences have served the town well over the years but this scheme will improve their effectiveness to maintain the level of protection they give residents.
“These improvements should provide protection for another 50 years.
“The project will also have the additional benefit of helping to manage the flow of the River Leven through Stokesley creating a better habitat for wildlife.”
A new river restoration project is also being planned in partnership with the Tees Rivers Trust which will significantly improve the quality of the river environment.
All contractors working on the site will be wearing appropriate PPE and adhering to any social distancing requirements.
The work will begin in autumn 2020 and aims to be completed by the end of spring 2021.
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