Holly has welcomed a new scheme for people living in flood risk areas which will ensure that they have better access to affordable flood insurance.

The launch of the scheme comes just months after the Boxing Day floods after Strom Eva which affected 2,781 residential properties in Calderdale.

Flood Re allows insurance firms to pass on flood related risks meaning no one should be denied insurance cover or face excessive premiums.

Householder premiums will be lower than would be the case if the flood risks were fully taken into account as Flood Re will effectively subsidise insurance policies in areas especially prone to flooding. The cost of the subsidy will be covered by a levy on all home insurers in the UK.

For householders the flood element of an insurance policy will be fixed according to the home’s council tax band. A homeowner in band A would pay £210 a year for buildings and contents flood cover, rising to £1,200 a year for a large band H residence.

Speaking following the launch, Holly said:

“I am pleased that the scheme is up and running and will be available for consumers in Calderdale.

“Many people in Copley and Sowerby Bridge have told me they have struggled to access affordable flood insurance and I have been helping a number of constituents to secure insurance for their homes.

“I am hopeful that the situation will improve now that Flood Re has launched.”

For more information on Flood Re visit http://www.floodre.co.uk/homeowner/