Funding to fix landslip site in Mytholmroyd
Repairs to Scout Road in Mytholmroyd, which was the scene of a huge landslip, could begin next month if councillors agree to proposals. Storm Eva on Boxing Day caused a landslip which has blocked Scout Road, led to the relocation of Scout Road Academy students and the evacuation of nearly 20 homes for safety reasons.
Councillor Barry Collins, Calderdale Council’s Deputy Leader and chair of the economy and investment panel, said: “We understand that this has been an extremely difficult time for local people in the area, and we have been working hard to find a solution to bring as much normality back to their lives as possible.”
The plan is to install a specialist ‘catch’ fence on the hillside, fixed into the bedrock to protect the area from any further land movement. Although this is not a permanent solution to all of the landslide issues, it would make the area safe so that drivers can use the road, pupils can return to the school and residents can go back to their homes.
A sum of £400,000 for this work comes after the Economy and Investment Panel identified Scout Road as a priority and recommended the investment to Caldederdale Council’s Cabinet. The next step is to finalise designs and costings for the shortterm solution. It is hoped that work on the fence could start by mid-March, with expected completion by the end of May. Coun Collins added: “Since the landslide we have been supporting local people all we can, and have met with them regularly to keep everyone updated on the work being done. We know that a long-term solution is needed and continue to seek further support from the Government to help cover the costs. In the meantime, our priority is to make sure people are able to use the area safely and as normally as possible.”