Householders with properties at risk of flooding could get help to fund suitable protection products for their homes under a new scheme being considered by members of the Environment Committee next Wednesday (3 September).
Perth & Kinross Council and the Scottish Fire & Rescue Service have worked together with the Scottish Flood Forum to develop a pilot Property Level Protection scheme in Aberfeldy, Comrie, Crieff, and Pitlochry. The proposed locations were identified through an assessment of the areas of highest flood risk within Perth and Kinross, using information provided by SEPA.
If the report is approved by Committee members, residents in the pilot areas will be offered a free flood risk survey. The survey will be carried out by Scottish Fire & Rescue Service staff who have been trained by the Scottish Flood Forum. The survey will identify the main areas where water can enter the property, and the householder will be given advice on ways of mitigating this risk, including through the purchase of suitable Property Level Protection flood products.
If residents wish to go ahead and purchase any of the recommended products, then they will be offered the opportunity to buy these at a reduced price through the Council. By buying Property Level Protection flood products in bulk for groups of residents at a time the Council will be able to make savings on the normal retail price and then offer these savings to people in the pilot area.
Councillor Mike Williamson, Vice-Convener of the Environment Committee, said: “We’re all used to seeing piles of sandbags around the outside of houses and in streets during floods in an effort to protect individual properties from the effects of the flood water. However, there are other more effective products available which offer greater flexibility.
“The free flood risk survey will offer advice on products which suit the build and location of an individual property. The Council can then use its buying power to purchase the required products in bulk and pass on these savings to affected residents.
“I know flooding remains a concern for people living in various parts of Perth and Kinross. If this scheme is a success with residents in the pilot areas then I would hope to see it rolled out across the whole area so that everyone can benefit.”
