£17 million of European funding has been given to flood and coastal defence projects across Wales, Environment Minister Jane Davidson announced today (Wed 17th March).

The 12 schemes are the first in Wales to be given funding from a £30 million of European convergence support made available in December. It will be invested in measures to protect homes and businesses.

Areas that are to benefit include Tywyn, which receive £3.1 million, Borth £2.8 million, Rhyl £2.8 million and Duffryn Conwy £2.1 million.

Ms Davidson said:

There is a realisation that our communities are at growing risk from flooding and coastal erosion due to the impact of climate change. This is a reality we are going to have to come to terms with. We have to alleviate its effect on our communities and prepare in the best way we can. No one can stop flooding, but we can prepare.

The funding for these works will help protect vulnerable areas in the best way possible. They will make a significant difference to the lives of local people who know only too well the effects of flooding.

The Welsh Assembly Government’s environment strategy outlines the need to adapt to climate change impacts and in particular to move to a risk management approach for flooding in Wales.  These additional funds will help in achieving those aims.

Ministers have been successful in gaining £30million in European funding to support flood and coastal risk management projects in Wales. This additional funding raises expenditure for capital works by up to 35 per cent.

The European funding is the first step towards seeing vital flood and coastal defence work built. Those managing the schemes will need to match the EU funds, and they can apply for the Assembly Government’s flood and coastal defence grant to assist with this.

Story on the eGov Monitor website