Residents asked for views on draft flood risk strategy

RESIDENTS in Carmarthenshire are being asked for their views on the council’s draft flood risk strategy.

A draft consultation document has been produced and residents and businesses are being asked for their feedback before it is submitted to Welsh Government.

It follows an initial public consultation held during August and September this year to understand public perception on local flood risk, and to help shape the strategy.

Widespread flooding across the UK in the summer of 2007 resulted in the country’s largest peacetime emergency since World War Two.

The Government commissioned an independent review of the lessons learned during the flooding emergency which called for urgent and fundamental changes in the way flood risk is managed across the country.

The Flood and Water Management Act (FWMA) 2010 came into force and local authorities were tasked with leading and co-ordinating local flood risk management.

As a designated Lead Local Flood Authority (LLFA) under the act, Carmarthenshire County Council is responsible for preparing a strategy to address flood risk arising from local sources such as surface water; ground water; and ordinary watercourses.

The consultation draft and survey can be found on the council’s website and paper copies are also available in County Hall, Carmarthen; Ty Elwyn, Llanelli; Town Hall, Ammanford and the council offices in Crescent Road, Llandeilo.

The closing date for responses is December 31.

Executive Board Member for Street Scene Cllr Colin Evans said: “As a Lead Local Flood Authority, the council has a duty to co-ordinate and lead the management of flood risk arising from local sources within the county.

“It is important that we develop a strategy that reflects the needs of Carmarthenshire and so feedback from the public is vital.

“We also aim to increase flood risk awareness and provide further guidance and information for residents and businesses on managing risk and minimising damage as part of the strategy.”

To take part in the consultation please visit www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk or for a paper copy please call 01267 224544.