Residents of Brechin’s River Street have been struggling to come to terms with the aftermath of the devastating flash floods caused by Storm Babet over a month ago. The floods struck when the South Esk burst its banks, submerging several properties. Some residents have been left homeless and are still living in temporary accommodation, unsure of the future of their homes. With the festive season just around the corner, many of them face a bleak Christmas, amidst the challenges of displacement and starting afresh with little or no resources.
Jasmine Willox, one of the affected tenants who is currently residing in temporary accommodation with her partner and baby girl, talks about the difficulties of adapting to a smaller space, as well as the challenges of covering the high costs of storage heating and utilities. She mentions how even though she and her family were able to save a few items after the flash floods, most of their possessions were damaged or destroyed. The uncertainty around the fate of their homes has taken a toll on Jasmine’s mental well-being.
Euan Clark, another affected resident, expresses his doubts about ever being able to return to his home on River Street. His house has been condemned as unfit for occupation, and he has been living with family and friends while seeking more permanent accommodation. However, lack of resources and the need to deposit a hefty sum for rent are major impediments in securing suitable accommodation. Despite the fact that the floods impacted more than 50 council properties, authorities have yet to offer satisfactory solutions or adequate financial aid.
Kim Clark, one of the longer-term residents in the area, has seen her home get flooded four times in the past two decades. She too claims that her insurance has come to the rescue, providing her with a rental property. Despite the challenges of relocation, she feels she’s in a better position compared to other flood victims. She does not see herself coming back to River Street and is hoping that her home will be condemned.
Local councillor Jill Scott has been urging the Scottish government to provide substantial financial aid to deal with this unprecedented situation, which is too big for a local authority to cope with. In a ministerial taskforce meeting held on Thursday, the Scottish government pledged to offer support, but the residents continue to face the impact of the floods on a daily basis. The floods and the uncertainty around the status of their homes have been quite traumatic for the residents, leaving some of them feeling trapped, in the dark, and depressed
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