Councillors asked for green light on next stages for Scotland's largest proposed Flood Protection Scheme
Falkirk councillors are being asked to take the final statutory decision on the Grangemouth Flood Protection Scheme, a vital project intended to ultimately help protect around 2,760 homes, 1,200 businesses and nationally important infrastructure from flooding.
A report to Falkirk Council's Executive on 17 September recommends confirming the proposed scheme without modification following completion of the statutory consultation and objection process required under flood risk legislation.
The proposed scheme has been developed to help reduce flood risk across Grangemouth and neighbouring communities from river and coastal flooding. Grangemouth and the surrounding area have been identified by SEPA and the Scottish Government as one of Scotland's highest flood risk areas because of the potential impact flooding could have on communities, businesses, transport networks and infrastructure.
The recommendation follows a lengthy period of engagement and consultation, including public exhibitions, community events, formal notification of more than 10,000 interested parties and a hearing to consider the outstanding objections. An independent reporter appointed to examine objections and hear evidence recommended that the scheme be confirmed without modification.
In order to be confirmed, the Scheme must also comply with habitat regulations with councillors also being asked to make a decision on at the same time.
The recommendations before councillors relate to the final statutory decisions required at this stage of the project. Subject to approval, further detailed design, procurement, funding and delivery decisions would still be required before flood defences can be constructed and brought into operation in the coming years.
Paul Kettrick, Head of Investment, Assets and Climate, said:
Flooding can be devastating for people's homes, businesses and communities, and the impact can last long after the water has gone.
"Grangemouth and the surrounding area face some of the highest flood risks in Scotland. As the climate changes, those risks are predicted to grow.
"The recommendations before councillors are about the final statutory decisions needed at this stage. If approved, the scheme would move beyond the notification stage and into the next phases.
"While there is still significant work ahead before flood defences are delivered on the ground, this would be an important milestone in moving the scheme forward.
"At its heart, this project is about helping to protect homes, businesses, jobs and important infrastructure, and giving communities greater confidence for the future.
Subject to councillors approving the recommendations, the Council will publish a formal decision notice and complete the remaining statutory procedures.
The project would then move into subsequent stages of development, with further detailed design, procurement and funding activity required before construction of flood defences can begin.
More information about the scheme, including project background, plans and consultation activity, is available on the Grangemouth Flood Protection Scheme website.