MP calls for action to protect flood hit Aberdeenshire communities
West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine MP Andrew Bowie has written to Scottish Government Ministers calling for a holistic approach to combat flooding in his constituency.
The MP highlights the challenges posed by recent and historic flooding events, including the damage caused to communities like Ballater and the threat to the local economy, which is supported by the Dee, Don, and smaller rivers in Aberdeenshire.
In his letter Mr Bowie acknowledges the limitations of flood defences, which he says can be time-consuming and costly to construct and can also cause division within communities.
He cites the Stonehaven Flood Defence Scheme as an example of the progress that can be made, but notes that residents in Ballater and other areas have experienced repeated damage from extreme weather events.
The MP also calls for more resources to be allocated to Aberdeenshire Council for flood protection in the Cycle 2 Plan and highlights four specific areas in his constituency - Aboyne, Fettercairn, Kemnay, and Tarland - that have suffered significant damage and cost due to flooding.
He acknowledges the concerns of residents regarding the regularity of flooding events and droughts, and the need to consider mitigation measures for both issues.
He said: “Not only are many of my constituents expecting more regular autumn/winter flooding events, but they are also expecting more sustained and regular droughts in the summer months, especially those who rely on a private water supply.
"Mitigation of both these issues needs to be considered as a matter of urgency, access to water is vital and we cannot have a situation where it becomes ‘feast or famine’ depending on the time of year.”
He believes that the Scottish Government must take a holistic approach to tackling the problem and encourages consultation with local communities.
He has requested a meeting with the Scottish Government and local stakeholders to discuss the way forward: "The Dee, Don, and smaller rivers across Aberdeenshire are complex ecosystems that greatly support the local economy.
"It is imperative that we take action to protect the property and lives of my constituents, and I would welcome more long-term proposals as opposed to reactively constructing hard flood defences."
Mr Bowies letter is a call to action for the Scottish Government to work with local communities and stakeholders to find a solution that protects the residents of West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine from the impacts of climate change.
