OTLEY'S MP has been given an update on flood alleviation plans for the town.

The Government announced £2 million of funding for work to protect local homes and businesses after Otley flooded three times at the end of 2015.

There were signs that the scheme was progressing when borehole drilling and other ground investigation works were carried out by the riverside last November.

MP Alex Sobel (Lab, Leeds North West) has now received further details from the Environment Agency, which is collaborating with Leeds City Council on the project.

He said: "The research and monitoring of the River Wharfe that has been carried out since the floods of 2015 has left a myriad of options, as the scheme looks to spend the allocated money.

"It is important that money is spent wisely and that no false economies are made even if that means going back to the Government to ask for an increased settlement.

"As with any significant investment in the town it is very important that there is a lasting legacy and that flood prevention techniques are a long lasting priority.

"I was impressed to hear at the meeting about how much footage on social media had been used by experts to understand and evaluate the flood water.

"I would, however, urge people to be safe if anything like this happens again as I can’t stress enough the potential danger of rivers, particularly during floods."

He added: "The floods caused such devastation to the homes of people in Otley and it is important that those, like myself, who are privileged to represent the town don’t let up in their determination to provide better security against this risk."