As part of a long-running campaign, providing constituents with updates on the interventions taken after publication of last year’s flood report, the Member of the Welsh Parliament for Aberconwy – Janet Finch-Saunders MS – said:  

“Last year, there was widespread concern that the Afon Bach defence scheme was sadly rendered largely ineffective by the great torrents of water produced by Storm Ciara. This was reported in my 2020 flood report, which vitally included several asks of the local authority. 

“I am most pleased to have been informed that a review of the inspection regime and management of the Afon Bach watercourse was undertaken immediately after the February storms, and that its recommendations  have now been implemented by the relevant officials.  

“This tangible progress will, I hope, offer some long-needed reassurance to local residents. Positively, and looking ahead, Council officials are now also undertaking a review of the downstream capacity of the Afon, in conjunction with the local natural flood management study.  

“Likewise, and whilst the effectiveness of debris screens are reviewed across the Conwy County Borough, during recent yellow and amber weather warnings, a mechanical excavator has been placed on standby to counter any potential blockages that may occur.   

“In recognising that some reservations remain about this defence, I will continue to correspond with the Local Authority to ensure that these concerns are realised. Nonetheless, this is a positive step in the right direction for which I thank Conwy County Borough Council.” 

ENDS 

Notes to Editors:  

• CCBC also say that landowners along the Afon Bach at known breech points have been reminded of their riparian responsibilities in clearing the watercourse of any fallen debris with correspondence was sent out on February and July 2020. Inspections have been carried out in this area prior to all recent weather warnings to confirm the absence of blockages.  
• With regards to the review into the operational effectiveness of the Caer Felin debris screen – and all screens under the responsibility of Conwy Council – should any modifications be required, a capital case will be submitted to carry out modification works. The review follows newly published CIRIA guidance. 
• Natural flood management is also being considered in the upper catchments of Cae Person and Afon Bach. CCBC say that any interventions will depend on capital funding being made available. You can find Janet’s update on similar natural management project by clicking here.  

Photo: Janet Finch-Saunders MS/AS