The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Public opinion sought on £12m Arbroath flood prevention scheme.
Arbroath: Public views wanted on £12m scheme to cut down on risks
People are being asked for their views on a major £12 million flood prevention programme for Arbroath.
Angus Council wants to hear from anyone who lives and works in the town and gather their views on the project.
An update on the scheme was given to members of the council’s communities committee when they met in Forfar on Tuesday.
It has been developed to reduce the flood risk in the town and remove the threat of flooding to 530 people, preventing damage that averages at £840,000 each year.
Members were advised the planned publication of the flood scheme has been deferred until the spring to allow more people to offer their views, in particular those whose land is affected.
A report by Ian Cochrane, head of technical property services, revealed the estimated £11.97m project will be partfunded by the Scottish Government and the Coastal Communities Fund.
Consultation has taken place with community councils, land, property and business owners, residents and local councillors.
Independent councillor Lois Speed, communities vice-convener, has urged members of the public to have their say on the idea.
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We want to go further to maximise awareness of this project so the people of Arbroath are aware of what it means for them. LOIS SPEED
She said: “This scheme is important to everyone in Arbroath.
“It will not only provide flood protection to the town, it will also have a positive impact on its economic future and the wellbeing of all of its people.
“We have already carried out statutory consultation with those directly affected by the scheme.
“But we want to go further to maximise awareness of this project so the people of Arbroath are aware of what it means for them and have an opportunity to express their views.
“We have been greatly encouraged by the public response and support for the scheme so far, but recognise the impact of this scheme extends beyond the boundaries of where work will be carried out.”
Letters will be sent out to those whose land will be affected directly before the scheme is finalised and legal notices issued.
The main operations of work in areas historically affected by flooding are the construction of three flood storage areas at Brothock Meadows, St Vigeans and Hercules Den, using embankments and flow controls to retain flood water above the natural ground level.
There will also be enhanced defences, including a combination of new flood walls where there are no defences, or where existing defences are in poor condition, plus raising of existing walls and some minor works to them.
Arbroath West and Letham Liberal Democrat councillor Richard Moore welcomed the project.
“I have seen at first hand in York the devastation which can be caused by floods and wholeheartedly support these proposals,” he said.
jathomson@thecourier.co.uk