Flood awareness centre opens to offer advice

A state of emergency was declared in Hull during flooding in 2007

A flood awareness centre has opened in Hull.

The pop-up facility, which is open until Saturday and based in Paragon Street, will offer advice on how to prepare in the event of flooding.

Visitors can take part in workshops and sessions on the key issues, including how to secure flood insurance and protect pets.

The centre has been set up by Living With Water - a partnership between Yorkshire Water, Hull City Council, East Riding of Yorkshire Council, the Environment Agency and the University of Hull.

In 2007, thousands of people in the city were evacuated from their homes when the city's drainage systems were overwhelmed following heavy rain.

Nearly all of the city's 98 schools were damaged, with total flood repair costs put at more than £40m.

In 2013, the city was hit by tidal flooding when a storm surge flooded 264 homes.

At the time, the Environment Agency warned water levels on the Humber could rise by over 3ft (1m) in the next 100 years.

Changing climate

Lauren Murtagh, Living With Water community co-ordinator at the city council, said: “As Hull is second only to London in terms of flood risk, this centre is more vital than ever.

"It will provide an opportunity for residents to learn how to prepare for and mitigate the impacts of flooding in a changing climate."

The centre will feature a flood recovery board game and experts will be on hand to answer questions about ecology, water management and other issues.

The centre is open from 10:00 to 16:00 GMT Monday to Friday and 10:00 to 14:00 on Saturday.

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