Flooding action plan

An action plan to help homeowners and businesses prevent damage caused by flooding was unveiled in Menstrie this week.

The Hillfoots village was chosen to launch the national action plan following severe flooding there in August, 2012.

The plan, entitled‘Living With Flooding’, sets out advice to mitigate or stop flooding and says minor adaptations, such as installing a flood guard and raising the height of electrical sockets, can prevent damage or reduce the amount of time spent in temporary accommodation.

Environment Secretary Roseanna Cunningham attended the launch on Monday morning. She said: “Flooding is devastating for those affected, from the initial emotional shock of having possessions or stock destroyed, to the financial strain of leaving your home or closing your business.

“We must be more creative and pragmatic in our approach to adapting to the increased threat that climate change will bring. It is important that we work together to ensure we are more resilient to flooding.

“I hope everyone with a property at risk of flooding will benefit from this action plan.”

Riverside, in Stirling has been prone to flooding. Secretary of Riverside Community Council, Emily McLaughlin said:“Flooding is a natural concern for Riverside and as a community council we have approached Stirling Council regarding this issue. They are keen to engage with us to work with us on a lower level of protection as well as preventative measures. They are hoping to protect the area from flooding and improve the areas affected.

“We are keen to represent our community on this issue and plan to feature flooding issues at one of our meetings in the NewYear and feedback to the council any concerns and suggestions that may be offered.”

Karen Donald from AXA Insurance, chair of the property flood resilience delivery group, said:“While there continues to be action to help alleviate the effects of flooding, such as flood schemes and urban draining schemes, the responsibility for protecting property rests with the owner.

“This action plan equips homeowners and businesses with information about effective measures that can make a big difference in the event of a flood.”

The action plan has been developed by the property flood resilience delivery group which includes representatives from the insurance industry, Scottish Flood Forum, Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), local authorities and businesses.

In August 2012, the Observer reported how elderly residents of a care home in Menstrie had to be evacuated as heavy rain and flooding caused havoc.