Liz Smith, Scottish Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has called on the Scottish Government to instigate a national strategic review of flooding infrastructure and management following the latest incidents of flooding in Perthshire.
Liz Smith MSP said:
“My thoughts go out to all those people who have been affected by the flooding we have seen over the last 24 hours. It is vital that help and support is provided to help home owners and businesses recover.
“The flooding which we have witnessed over the last 24 hours has only demonstrated how vulnerable many of our communities are and why there needs to be a focus on regular inspection and maintenance of burns and waterways.
“It is clear that a number of communities across Perthshire need to see additional investment made in their local flood infrastructure. For some time I have been arguing that we need to see the dredging of local burns given a higher priority and the localised flooding we have seen only goes to make this case.
“I believe the time has come for a national strategic flood infrastructure review to be undertaken to assess the communities which desperately need investment in flood prevention and protection measures.
“Local Authorities currently have the responsibility but not the resources to protect homes and businesses from flooding. It’s time for a national strategic approach to ensure key investment is forthcoming.
Liz Smith MSP continued:
“Approximately one in 22 of all residential properties and one in 13 of all non-residential or business properties in Scotland are classified as at risk from flooding and the average annual damages to homes, businesses and agriculture from all sources of flooding is estimated to be between £720 million and £850 million. Perhaps the greatest cost is the impact which flooding can have on families and it is clear from experiences across the country that key to helping those affected is the initial support provided.”