Community welcomes flood action plan

A Hillfoots community previously hit by flooding has welcomed the launch a Scottish Government action plan to alleviate the damage caused by such weather events .

The Observer told on Wednesday how the action plan to help homeowners and businesses prevent damage caused by flooding was unveiled in Menstrie this week.

Menstrie 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.

Menstrie Community Resilience

Group attended the launch. Group coordinator, James Bull, said:“The plan sets out improvements for flooding resiliency as a direction of travel alongside some very practical personal advice. We are all individuals in our own communities so this should matter to everyone. The plan shows this message is understood and highlights those organisations who have stood up to the challenge.

“Menstrie has an active community resilience group which works closely with national organisations, businesses, government agencies and the blue light services. For such groups to function and plan effectively there must be a trusting partnership between the local residents and those who have external resources and coherent advice.”