WIREDGOV

Minister for Environment, Hannah Blythyn has approved funding of nearly £700,000 in an important step towards protecting one of South Wales’ most popular seaside villages, Mumbles, from flooding.

The Welsh Government funding of £682,500 will contribute 75% towards the cost of carrying out detailed design work for a coastal defence scheme to reduce the flood and coastal erosion risk to Mumbles.  

Under the Council’s preferred option the coastal defences will be enhanced and the promenade widened, potentially providing recreation, tourism and health benefits,  as well as reducing risk to homes and businesses.

The appraisal identifies that, once construction work is complete,124 properties will benefit immediately, rising to 147 in 2118, taking into account climate change and associated sea level rise.

Hannah Blythyn said:

“It is one of our key priorities as a Government to reduce the risk of flooding caused by rising sea levels and climate change. This funding towards the cost of the design phase is bringing Mumbles one step closer to a significant coastal protection scheme which will make a difference to residents and visitors alike.

“We are working with coastal local authorities around Wales towards investment of up to £150 million to reduce the risks we face from sea-level rise and climate change.  This complements a further £151 million capital investment in flood risk management over the lifetime of this Government.”

Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment Services, Cllr Mark Thomas, said: 

“We are delighted that our Welsh Government partners have approved a substantial funding contribution towards this exciting project. It means we can now move forward to develop a detailed design for the scheme.

“Not only will it protect properties at risk of flooding near the seafront and tackle coastal erosion for generations to come, it is also an opportunity to widen and improve sections of the promenade at the same time for the enjoyment of residents and visitors.”