Chesterfield Borough Council, working with the Environment Agency, has set out a recommended long-term plan to protect Tapton Terrace residents from serious and ongoing flood risk.
The proposal follows the tragic death of resident Maureen Gilbert during severe flooding and subsequent recommendations from the Coroner highlighting the need for action to help prevent future loss of life.
Following a review of options, including flood defences and property flood resilience measures, the Environment Agency has concluded that purchasing and demolishing the homes on Tapton Terrace, and preventing future development on the land, offers the only effective and viable long-term solution to keep residents safe.
The Environment Agency concluded that the alternative options assessed would not provide viable, long-term protection for Tapton Terrace properties, where the flood risk is already significant, as it is expected to increase because of climate change.
Representatives from Chesterfield Borough Council and the Environment Agency have spoken to Tapton Terrace residents this week and are starting a process of tailored support for each household.
Homeowners have been reassured that they will receive a fair market payment for their property, alongside compensation recognising disruption and loss. Residents who rent their homes will also be supported and compensated for the loss of their home and the associated disruption. The council is appointing a dedicated Project Liaison Officer to provide support and a single point of contact for residents throughout the process.
The plans remain at a very early stage, and no residents are being asked to move immediately. Further updates, including detailed timelines, will be shared with residents as the project develops.
Chesterfield Borough Council is leading delivery as the local authority with support from the Environment Agency.
Toby Perkins MP said: "The news that Chesterfield is progressing with the purchase and demolition of homes, unable to be protected from floods, will be bittersweet to Tapton Terrace residents, who continue to live in fear of a repeat of the terrible floods in 2023, which claimed the life of their neighbour Maureen Gilbert.
"Having been here when Chesterfield was flooded in 2007, efforts to protect Tapton Terrace in particular, and other Chesterfield communities have redoubled since the 2023 floods. Working with residents, Chesterfield Borough Council and the Environment Agency it has become clear, following the coroner’s report, that the risk to life, caused by the unique geography of Tapton Terrace was too great and that no workable solution would offer residents there the security they deserve.
"This will be difficult for residents who have built their lives and memories here, but the evidence shows that there is no viable long-term way to make these homes safe. I also know from my own consultation with residents that most of them accept this and now want to move on.
"My priority has always been to protect people's lives while ensuring every resident is treated fairly, with the support, compensation and respect they deserve throughout this process. I was delighted that the Chief Executive of the Environment Agency had visited Tapton Terrace to meet local residents and see the situation himself and he has come good on his promise that we would speed up action on this issue. I have also been resolute that residents must receive appropriate compensation that enables them to move on, whether they are owners or tenants and so I will continue working with all the agencies involved to make sure that happens."
Christine Durrant, Chief Executive, Chesterfield Borough Council said: “Our thoughts remain with Maureen Gilbert’s family and friends, and everyone on Tapton Terrace affected by flooding.
“The Environment Agency’s recommendation reflects the serious long-term flood risk facing these homes. As the local authority, we will work with our partners to progress this project carefully while supporting the residents with clear information and practical help throughout.
“We know this news can be unsettling, and we are committed to supporting each household as our plans develop.”
Lyn Peart, Environment Agency's Area Director for Yorkshire, said: “We understand just how devastating flooding can be for individuals, families and the wider community, and our thoughts remain with everyone affected.
"Following the Coroner’s Prevention of Future Deaths report, we have worked closely and urgently with partners to ensure that reducing the flood risk for residents at Tapton Terrace is a clear and immediate priority.
"We have been working hand‑in‑hand with Chesterfield Borough Council to identify a solution that offers long-term protection and will continue to support the council and residents every step of the way as this vital project progresses."
