Question reference: S5W-31412
- Asked by: Colin Beattie, MSP for Midlothian North and Musselburgh, Scottish National Party
- Date lodged: 25 August 2020
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Current status: Answered by Mairi Gougeon on 2 September 2020
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what support it is providing to the residents of Fala and Fala Dam who have been affected by flooding following recent extreme weather.
Answer
A number of residential properties in Fala Dam suffered from flooding overnight on 11/12 August 2020. Evidence suggests that this incident was associated with the failure of the embankment supporting the A68 trunk road to the south of the village, and the resulting surge of water and detritus that impacted the village.
In light of recent events Midlothian Council is engaging with local residents and relevant groups to consider any appropriate actions. The Scottish Government supports the work of the Scottish Flood Forum which works with the local authorities, other agencies and local communities to reduce the impacts of flooding.
Reducing flood risk is a priority for the Scottish Government and we will continue to support authorities to deliver actions that protect our communities; as well as raising awareness amongst the public and businesses.
The Programme for Government contains a commitment to provide an additional £150 million over five years to support flood management actions, building on our existing £42 million annual commitment to local authorities for this purpose.