FLOODS Recovery Minister John Healey has released £100,000 for Kirklees to help compensate for last month’s floods.
The grant is part of an £8m recovery package announced by Prime Minister Gordon Brown on Saturday.
Kirklees is one of 34 local authorities to receive the grant which is aimed at aiding vulnerable individuals and their families.
Local authorities will decide how to spend the money which has been donated according to the number of households affected.
Clr Martyn Bolt, Kirklees Council’s Cabinet member for the environment, welcomed the cash, but expressed concern about flood prevention.
Clr Bolt said the money would be spent repairing and drying households in worst-hit areas such as Denby Dale and Mirfield.
He said a flood ‘summit’ would take place at the end of July with representatives from the Environment Agency, Yorkshire Water and the Fire Services, together with delegates from political parties.
The Government has promised more help will follow, once councils and Government have a clearer assessment of the damage and repairs.
A further £2m has been held back for further distribution.
The Government Department for Children, Schools and Families has promised to work closely with councils on flood recovery for schools and children’s services and on practical help and advice for parents.
Other funding especially to help businesses has been made available by the Regional Development Agencies with £2.5m for the Yorkshire and Humber and East Midlands regions.
Mr Healey said:
“I've met residents, businesses and local authorities in the flood-hit communities about the clean up challenges they face. I know this money will help but I also know more is needed.
“Once we receive an updated assessment of the damage from local authorities, more targeted help will follow, including enhanced support through the special Bellwin scheme.”
Wakefield MP Mary Creagh said: “It’s very good news. I’ve been standing up and fighting for our district.
“Caroline Flint, the Minister for Yorkshire and Humberside, should come and see the devastation the flood has caused in my area.
“So far the focus has been on metropolitan areas and while they have been badly hit, I’m determined that rural areas should be helped.”
Batley and Spen MP Mike Wood said: “Batley and Spen hasn’t been affected in the same way as other areas of Yorkshire, but people in Littletown have suffered and I want to make sure they get the support they want and the help they need.
“There are many unresolved issues and questions in relation to what happened at Littletown and I am keen to make sure residents get some answers.”
Huddersfield MP Barry Sheerman added: “I’m glad the money has come through. Let’s just see if it’s enough to cover the damage.”
