Businesses and local residents in Kirkstall were today facing up to the reality of being washed out after the River Aire broke its banks yesterday.
Although flood water had subsided overnight, the scene on Kirkstall Road this morning was one of disbelief and devastation.
One local business owner, who did not want to be named, told the Dispatch:
“I can’t believe it. It’s just unbelievable. I got up this morning and Kirkstall Road was a river. I’ve lost a lot of stock. This is my livelihood. I just don’t know what to do.”
Woodrup Cycles on Kirkstall Road is another flooded business. They wrote on Facebook:
“Thanks for all your kind messages about the ongoing flooding in the Kirkstall area.
“We’re still unable to access the shop at the moment to asses the damage. I’ll update as soon as we’re able too. Thanks again for all the kind words of support, it really is appreciated.”
The Vue Cinema, which was evacuated last night, has posted a message on its website:
“Due to localised flooding we are closed today however, any tickets purchased will be honoured at Vue Leeds Light subject to availability. Please check the Vue Leeds Light films times for scheduling information.
“If you are unable to attend an alternative performance please contact our customer service team on 0345 308 4620 to speak to an adviser for assistance.”
Businesses at the new Kirkstall Bridge were also hit – most notably Costa Coffee.
Anyone fancy a coffee? @CostaCoffee #leedsflood pic.twitter.com/xYtG9LApVB
— David Hopkins (@StoppoDriver) December 27, 2015
Kirkstall Bridge Inn is also closed today due to serious flooding.
Anyone for a spot of spelunking @Kirkstallbridge ? #Leeds #Floods #whenyoursmiling #spelunking #kirkstall pic.twitter.com/2CPzW9EAzg
— Kirkstall Bridge Inn (@Kirkstallbridge) December 26, 2015
Kirkstall Road and Kirkstall Bridge are expected to remain closed for the rest of the day.
A clean-up organised by Kirkstall councillor Lucinda Yeadon this morning had to be cancelled due to flood water and has been rearranged for tomorrow, depneding on water levels. And local cafe Armley Junktion has been offering food and clothes to those affected.
More than 2,00 homes across Armley, Wortley, Farnley, Pudsey and Kirkstall were left without power for several hours last night.
Follow our live blog for the latest on the impact of the floods on West Leeds.