Dŵr Cymru invests £2 million in a new RainScape scheme in Llanelli

Dŵr Cymru is starting work on 11 September on its next RainScape scheme in Llanelli – a new and industry leading scheme to manage rainwater. The scheme will reduce the amount of rainwater which flows into local public drainage systems and will therefore reduce the risk of flooding and sewer spillages into the Loughor Estuary.

The £2 million scheme, part of a wider £15 million investment, is designed to reduce the surface water runoff currently entering the sewerage network in the area. The innovative surface water management techniques, developed in partnership with Carmarthenshire County Council, will include installing attractive planted areas that will absorb the water, and innovative drainage curbs.

Whilst there are some excellent international examples of this type of scheme including in Malmo (Sweden) and Portland (USA), the Llanelli RainScape schemes will be the first of their kind in the UK.

The scheme is particularly needed in the area as Llanelli sees almost as much storm water in its network as Swansea, despite the fact that Swansea serves three times the number of properties, and three times the area compared with Llanelli.

A further information session for residents will be held on Tuesday 10th September 2013 from 4pm to 7pm at Myrtle House, Myrtle Terrace. Residents were originally consulted on the plans in 2012 and the plans were amended to reflect issues raised by local residents.

While roads will remain open, temporary traffic measures will be used to ensure that access is retained for residents at all times whilst the work is taking place. It is anticipated that the work will take 8 months to complete and customers will be kept informed throughout.

Chris Jones, Chief Executive for Dŵr Cymru, Welsh Water says: “The delivery of RainScape is a sustainable, future proof system that will significantly reduce the risk of sewer flooding in the local area. We are proud of the fact that it is the first of its kind anywhere in the UK and it reflects our goals to reduce our impact on the environment and provide our customers with a first class service.

“The international examples which are guiding our work, clearly demonstrate that short term work now will bring significant long term benefits. In both instances the sustainable drainage schemes have reduced flooding, enhanced biodiversity and helped regeneration. We expect this innovative and sustainable approach to bring similar benefits to Llanelli and the surrounding area.”

Carmarthenshire County Council Executive Board Member for Technical Services, Cllr Colin Evans says: “The authority are very pleased to be working with Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water and other partners in delivering solutions to problems brought about by climate change; this scheme is innovative and a sustainable solution, one of a number required to meet challenges brought about by changes in our environment while also accommodating economic growth”.