The Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Rural Affairs, Lesley Griffiths, was in Risca today to see the completed works on a £2.4million flood alleviation scheme.
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
The flood alleviation scheme, which runs along the River Ebbw through Risca, was jointly funded by the Welsh Government and Caerphilly County Borough Council and will reduce the flood risk to 278 properties.
The visit by the Cabinet Secretary comes as the Welsh Government announced an additional £33million capital funding for flooding schemes across Wales.
The funding will support the Welsh Government’s work with Natural Resources Wales and Local Authorities on priority flood risk management schemes over the next four years. This is in addition to the £150m innovative coastal risk management scheme which will commence in 2018.
The Cabinet Secretary said:
“I’m pleased to have the opportunity to visit Risca and see this important scheme completed. Earlier this year we promised the people of Wales that, in addition to the £240 million for flood and coastal erosion risk management over the life of the last Government, we would make further investment into flood defences across Wales to protect homes, businesses and motorists. I am delighted we have been able to deliver on this promise.”
There is a history of flooding in Risca. The majority of the defences were built in the 1980s and analysis of these identified areas of weakness. As part of the works new flood defence embankments have been constructed and existing defences have been raised and stabilised.
The scheme has also provided additional benefits to the area, including tree planting and improved recreation facilities and access.
The scheme was delivered by Natural Resources Wales.