Unusual Plan Implemented to Prevent Flooding in Carmarthenshire
In a unique move to combat the ongoing issue of flooding in parts of Carmarthenshire, a new plan has been put in place that could potentially revolutionise flood prevention techniques. The proposal involves the installation of rotating cylinders on the River Cothi, aimed at diverting debris such as fallen trees away from bridge supports in the vicinity. If successful, this could mark the first use of such debris-sweepers in the UK and bring relief to the village of Pontargothi, which has been significantly impacted by flooding in recent years.
The plan, submitted to Carmarthenshire Council by South Wales Trunk Road Agent, aims to address the root cause of flooding incidents by preventing debris blockages at the grade two-listed Pontargothi Bridge. By strategically placing two rotating sweepers upstream of the bridge, it is anticipated that the devices will guide debris away from the bridge supports, reducing the likelihood of material accumulating and causing blockages by up to 60-70%. While debris sweepers are more commonly used in the USA, their implementation in the UK could signify a groundbreaking approach to flood prevention.
The River Cothi, which flows through a large catchment area before joining the River Towy downstream, has experienced increased flooding events since Storm Callum in 2018. The necessity for proactive measures to mitigate flood risks is evident, considering the impact on the local community, infrastructure, and road networks. The deployment of rotating sweepers is seen as a viable solution that minimises the environmental impact compared to other options such as debris catchers, which were initially considered.
Consultation with stakeholders, including the Cross Hands and District Angling Association, Natural Resources Wales, and local residents, has played a crucial role in finalising the flood prevention plan. Community feedback and concerns regarding the visual and noise impact of the rotating devices, as well as their effectiveness, have been taken into account. The commitment to transparency and engagement with those directly affected by flooding demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing the challenges posed by natural disasters.
The proposed installation of a CCTV camera to monitor the sweepers, along with additional equipment to track river flows, underscores the commitment to effective flood management. The project, expected to span around 10 weeks pending council approval, signifies a collaborative effort between South Wales Trunk Road Agent and relevant authorities to safeguard the community against future flooding incidents. The meticulous planning and stakeholder engagement reflect a holistic approach to addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by flooding in Carmarthenshire.
Local residents, including businesses like The Cresselly Arms situated near the Pontargothi Bridge, have expressed cautious optimism about the proposed flood prevention measures. Concerns regarding the operational aspects of the rotating sweepers, coupled with the need for continuous monitoring and maintenance, have been raised. The stakes are high for the community, as effective flood prevention measures are imperative to safeguard lives, property, and livelihoods in flood-prone areas.
In conclusion, the innovative approach to flood prevention in Carmarthenshire exemplifies a proactive and collaborative initiative to address the persistent challenges posed by flooding. By harnessing technology and community engagement, decision-makers are working towards a sustainable solution that not only mitigates flood risks but also ensures the long-term resilience of the region. As the first of its kind in the UK, the deployment of debris-sweepers heralds a new era in flood management that could set a precedent for future projects nationwide.