As Goole is highly vulnerable to flooding, the Environment Agency was already intending to reinforce flood defences along the Dutch River at Goole. However, a contribution from Goole Town Deal made it possible for this work to going ahead much sooner than planned and ensured that it would incorporate a ‘greenway corridor’ to enable pedestrians and cyclists to enjoy the great outdoors. This corridor will extend approximately 4.7 kilometres (see map below) and be built alongside and on top of the Dutch River flood defences.

A map showing the route of the Greenway Corridor.

Goole’s flood defences provide critical protection for existing properties and infrastructure. The prosperity of the town and its future development depend on these defences. They also have an economic, social and recreational function, providing green, active travel routes to improve connectivity with employment zones and surrounding settlements, as well as improving the health and wellbeing of local people. Town Deal funding was used to help bring forward two separate but interdependent projects; the Dutch River Flood Defence Refurbishment and Goole Greenway.

The Environment Agency had already identified a need to refurbishment the flood defences along the Dutch River and a technical review confirmed the extent of the work that will be necessary. The delivery of this project was scheduled to begin in 2027 but, thanks to a £1.6 million contribution from the Goole Town Deal programme, the Environment Agency was able to bring it forward. Work began on site mid-way through 2025, giving Goole residents and businesses greater certainty that the flood defence work will happen – and sooner than planned! The Flood Defence Refurbishment project is a prerequisite to the delivery of the Goole Greenway project.

Short-term benefits:

As Goole is located within Flood Zone 3, which means that it has the highest level of flood risk, this project has accelerated flood defence work so that residents and businesses can benefit from these defences sooner.

The pedestrian and cycleway will create a new active travel corridor, improving connectivity between Goole town centre and nearby villages, whilst also enhancing the town’s leisure offer. Encouraging walking and cycling will support wellbeing, promote healthier lifestyles and improve the health outcomes of local people.

Longer-term benefits:

Flood defence work will have a positive impact on business confidence, encouraging further investment in the town.

An aerial view of the Dutch River in Goole.