PLANS to strengthen flood defences in York have been revealed by the Environment Agency.

The scheme involves creating higher flood walls and gates and is designed to lessen the risk of properties along the River Ouse flooding near the centre of York.

The proposals are designed to benefit about 60 properties on the south side of the River Ouse in North Street, Wellington Row, Rougier Street, George Hudson Street and other areas near the centre of York around Leeman Road and Station Avenue.

Flood defences within the Royal Mail depot are also proposed, to reduce the risk of flooding on Leeman Road.

It is the third project in the agency’s £45 million drive to bolster defences at 18 locations across York, which was launched with extra Government cash in the wake of the 2015 flooding disaster.