Work starts on west Leeds wetland to improve water quality at Pudsey Beck
Work has started on a new west Leeds wet land scheme to help improve water quality in the nearby beck.
The Hough Side project, which is being completed by contract partners Kier, will use natural processes to improve water quality by naturally treating stormwater before it enters the Pudsey Beck, helping to reduce the amount of unionised ammonia entering the watercourse.
The scheme forms part of a wider programme of investment from Yorkshire Water in sustainable, low carbon solutions designed to protect and enhance the environment.
More than 4.2 hectares of land will be planted and developed into a network of interconnected ponds, which will naturally remove pollutants from stormwater.
As well as improving water quality in Pudsey Beck, the wetland will create new habitats for wildlife and enhance biodiversity in the local area.
The investment is part of an £8.3 billion investment across the region over the next five years to upgrade infrastructure and improve services for customers, with significant investment focused on improving the region’s watercourses.
Justine Pearson, project manager at Yorkshire Water, said: “We’re pleased to be finally starting work on the new wetland at Hough Side.
“The project, once completed, will help to treat stormwater during heavy rainfall and improve the quality of water in Pudsey Beck.
“This is one of four schemes in the area to improve Pudsey Beck, following work at Dick Lane, Pudsey Smalewell and planned work near Farnley balancing pond to increase stormwater storage in the sewer network and reduce discharges into Pudsey Beck.
Works at Hough Side are now underway and will contribute to ongoing efforts to improve water quality and enhance rivers and watercourses across the region.
The wetland is expected to be completed in Spring 2028.