Flooded residents in Rhondda Cynon Taf left without defences because of cost

Flooded residents in Rhondda Cynon Taf left without defences because of cost

Residents in Ynysybwl are expressing concerns for their safety after flood defences were rejected due to cost concerns. Natural Resources Wales (NRW) stated that building a taller flood wall or purchasing at-risk houses in the village was not economically viable. This decision has left homeowners feeling abandoned and fearful for the well-being of their families.

Paul Thomas, a longtime resident of Clydach Terrace, shared his harrowing experience of the flooding during Storm Dennis in 2020. He described how the water levels rose above his head, forcing him to swim to safety through his own home. Thomas emphasized the ongoing risk to life faced by him and his neighbors, underscoring the urgent need for effective flood protection measures.

Water from the Nant Clydach tributary inundated 16 houses on Clydach Terrace during the storm, leading to widespread damage. NRW explored various options to manage the flood risk, including constructing a raised flood defence wall or acquiring vulnerable properties. However, these proposals were deemed economically unfeasible under current government funding guidelines for flood risk management.

Local residents like Alison Linehan and Graham Watkins expressed their frustration and fear, highlighting the pressing need for improved flood prevention measures. While Rhondda Cynon Taf council has pledged to engage with residents to explore potential solutions, NRW reiterated its commitment to working with the community to address the ongoing flood risk in Ynysybwl

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