Archive - Tuesday, 10 February 2004


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Flood project back in budget

COUNCILLORS have reinstated two major schemes for Monmouth back into next year's budget.

Both the flood alleviation scheme and the pedestrianisation of the old Mediaeval Monnow Bridge were put back into the capital works programme by Monmouthshire council's cabinet on Monday, but the final decision still has to be ratified by full council.

Cllr Dick Cass said: "I am absolutely delighted with the decision to include these schemes in next year's budget.

"The River Monnow was only a hair's breath away from flooding last week, but the real problem is water running over land from the hills, unable to find its way to the river.

"The flood alleviation scheme would provide for the necessary pumps to allow this water to get to the river.

"With these schemes being included as part of the budget, I hope that work can start on them shortly."

Local businesses in Monmouth backed a petition launched on the weekend calling on Monmouthshire council to put the schemes back in the budget.

The petition was organised by Monmouth AM David Davies after it was revealed neither of the schemes were included in next years capital works programme. It was sent to the council this week.

Owners and managers of The Three Horseshoes Inn, The Britannia Inn, Images, Rub a Dub Laundry and Bridge Cycles have all put their name to the petition, along with Monmouth mayor Sue White.

They say both schemes are vital to the future prosperity of the town and are strongly urging the council to reinstate them in the budget.

Mr Davies said: "Monmouth escaped serious flooding by a whisker on Friday night. The rivers were very high and water was coming out of the drains on Drybridge Street. If the rain had continued it could have been disastrous.

Surely the council must see that dragging their heels over this is simply not an option."

Mr Davies said the pedestrianisation of the old bridge was also important to local traders who have been willing to put up with the disruption caused by the building of the new bridge.