HARDEN Moor is among five sites chosen for a pilot scheme which will explore natural measures to reduce flood risks.

The enhancement of woodland and wetland areas on the upland is among moves to be tested as part of the project, led by the Environment Agency (EA) and Leeds City Council, in partnership with Bradford Council.

Aims of the Leeds flood alleviation scheme are to slow the water flow from upstream in the River Aire catchment area.

A management design for Harden Moor, being developed by Bradford Council through the White Rose Forest, is now going out to public consultation.

Proposals feature wetland areas and drainage improvements to help ebb the flow into Harden Beck, a major tributary to the River Aire.

A consultation session takes place at the Woodbank Nurseries foyer, in Harden Road, Harden, between 11am and 3pm on Tuesday (Aug 21).

And a second is being held next Thursday (Aug 23), at The Malt, Wilsden Road, Harden, between 5pm and 7.30pm.

Anyone is welcome to go along to learn more about the project and provide feedback.

The final design will be drawn-up this autumn.

Councillor Judith Blake, leader of Leeds City Council, said: “The use of natural flood management to help reduce risks and control the flow of water is an important part of the second phase of the Leeds flood alleviation scheme.

“Using nature and the landscape to help do the job for us means we can work with landowners and stakeholders in very much a combined team approach to achieve what we all want – to reduce the risk of flooding and its impact as much as we can.”

Chris Milburn, project executive at the EA, said the agency was committed to reducing flood risk and improving the environment.

And Cllr Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council’s executive member for regeneration, planning and transport, said: “This is an exciting project that will not only help to reduce flood risk to the immediate settlements of Harden and Bingley, but will help reduce flows and water levels along the River Aire as it passes through Bradford district.

“The approach to using natural flood management will also provide multiple environmental benefits by improving water quality and creating habitats for wildlife in watercourses on Harden Moor.”

For further information about the venture, visit leeds.gov.uk/parking-roads-and-travel/flood-alleviation-scheme/flood-alleviation-scheme-phase-two or e-mail LeedsFAS.nfm@environment-agency.gov.uk.