Calderdale Council has paid more than £3 million in grants so far to residents and businesses whose homes and premises were damaged by the floods in December 2015. This is through hundreds of grants to help people recover from the floods and protect their property against future flooding.
For example, 850 people have applied for the Repair and Renew grant so far. Up to £5000 can be claimed for work that will help reduce further flood damage or make it easier to clean up and dry out after flooding. Hundreds of people across Calderdale are benefiting from work funded by this grant, like Tim and Cindy Baker from Elland.
Tim and Cindy Baker run their business, The Big Horse Dress Shop, from their home in Elland. The business produces custom-made competition dresses for horse shows. Tim says:
“The Boxing Day floods had a double impact for us. Furniture and other items in our home were destroyed, and we had to close our business for three months after thousands of pounds worth of stock and equipment were damaged beyond repair.
“Luckily we’re back up and running now, and thanks to grants from Calderdale Council we feel hopeful that we are as protected as we can be. It was very easy to apply for the grants and the Council was really helpful. We have spent the money on flood defences such as flood doors fitted by Elland-based Ark Flood Defence Network; blocking up other doors; and work to stop floodwater coming through our garden and into the house.
“We urge others to think about future protection for their homes and businesses, and to apply for a Council grant to help towards this.”
Cllr Tim Swift, Calderdale Council’s Leader, said:
“Residents and businesses in Calderdale are gradually getting back on their feet after the devastating Boxing Day floods. The Council and other organisations continue to help those affected, and I’m pleased that hundreds of people are benefiting from the grants.”