Flood awareness raised at flood fair

Photo: TEC Services Chair Cllr John Laing (left) is shown the flood sensor installed at Tower Brae Burn, Smithton by Matt Smith, Flood Team leader and Neil Gillies, Director of TEC Services

Residents affected by recent flooding in the Highlands told Environment Minister Stewart Stevenson about their experiences when he visited a flood fair today.

The Minister heard about the devastating effects of the floods in Smithton and Culloden which resulted in a fatality when a local resident was swept away as he tried to clear a blocked culvert.

During his tour of the flood fair, Mr Stevenson also met Scottish Flood Forum staff to find out about work being done to raise awareness, promote self help measures and protect the public from flooding.

Mr Stevenson said:

"Floods can cause devastation both in terms of damage to property and tragically, as I have heard today, also through a loss of life.

"However, there are measures which people can take to protect themselves and their property and to minimise any potential impact.

"That's why we have provided £140,000 annually to the Scottish Flood Forum, helping them to support those affected by flooding and raise awareness of the risks posed by flooding and what people can do to protect themselves."

Councillor John Laing, chairman of Highland Council's Transport, Environmental and Community Services committee, said:

"Highland Council has been working hard, in partnership with the Scottish Flood Forum, to try and help residents affected by the recent flooding. This flood fair, and the drop-in sessions which have been taking place, are designed to give local people valuable practical help as well as the support they need.

"The council's flood team have also produced, in conjunction with SEPA and the Scottish Flood Forum, bulletins for local residents to keep them informed about efforts being made to tackle the flooding problem in this area."

Among the residents Mr Stevenson met was Susan Scott who was affected by the recent flooding. The Smithton Burn runs through her garden and the flooding caused significant erosion.

Paul Hendy, Director of the Scottish Flood Forum, said:

"The exhibition allows property owners the opportunity to see and handle products, which when fitted, remove much of the fear of flooding.

"The minister's attendance shows just how important it is for home owners to take responsibility for themselves."

Among the residents Mr Stevenson met was Susan Scott who was affected by the recent flooding. The Smithton Burn runs through her garden and the flooding caused significant erosion.

She said:

"I went down to one of the first flood forum meetings and they were really helpful. They came to the house and had a look but said that we were already taking all the right steps.

"I think the flood fair is a good opportunity for people to find out about the help available."