MSP Emma Harper has welcomed the announcement of a new ten year strategy to protect Scotland’s most flood-prone communities – including of over £1.7 million funding for projects in Dumfries and Galloway.
The plan – announced by the First Minister today (Monday) – will support local flood risk management plans, fund more than 130 flood protection studies and deliver 40 new flood protection projects across Scotland – protecting more than 10,000 homes.
Today Ms Harper accompanied the First Minister to Newton Stewart to visit some of the businesses badly affected by recent flooding.
Commenting, Emma said:
“Earlier this year, we saw the devastating effects flooding can have on local communities – and this new strategy will help protect households across Dumfries and Galloway from the impact of future adverse weather.
“Investment in flood protection schemes and associated infrastructure is critical to protecting vulnerable householders, businesses and communities – and I am delighted to see the government working in partnership with local government on this important issue.
“The plan set out by the First Minister this week will give Dumfries and Galloway Council the certainty they need to deliver the actions set out in their Local Flood Risk Management Plans to help protect individuals, business and communities from the danger of flooding.
“It was good to be able to accompany the First Minister on her visit to Newton Stewart today and speak with some of the local residents and business owners I have met since becoming an MSP – We visited Cunninghams outdoor sports shop, Owens butchers and Snips hair salon. All were affected by the flooding.
“Many people had conveyed a lack of communication regarding specific plans including time frames for repair of the riverside wall and the plans for the starling bridge repair.
“Council representatives have now agreed to provided clearer communication for residents and businesses in Newton.
“There are however, many more areas of the region which will benefit from extra funding. Tomorrow (Tuesday) I will visit Carsphairn which has flooded three times in the past four years and is now the subject of a flood study by Dumfries & Galloway Council.
