Research to help protect Cumbernauld from floods

Last week North Lanarkshire Council agreed to work with Scottish Water on the survey, which will lead to the development of a new flood risk management plan.

The local authority is to put over £100,000 into the project.

A council spokesperson said: “As part of the Local Flood Risk Management Plan being developed by the council, we are proposing to jointly fund a study with Scottish Water to better understand the drainage systems and flooding mechanisms in the eastern part of Cumbernauld.

“This work cannot be done by either organisation alone so by working in partnership, we can improve our understanding of the interaction between the sewers and natural drainage system in this area and work together to reduce the risk of flooding for the future.”

The plan has attracted cross-party support. Tom Johnston of the SNP is one of the members elected to serve Cumbernauld Village.

He said: “The new study is part of the developing Forth Estuary Local Plan. So in this wider context it might also increase our understanding of the impact of fracking in the Forth Estuary area,of which east Cumbernauld form a part.

“The Cumbernauld to Grangemouth area is a key target for drilling.”

Mr Johnston also called on the council to pay its full share. He added: “There is a possibility of a Council budget cap on this, however. I hope there will be full finance for this study.”

A Scottish Water spokesman said: “The purpose of this study, which is being jointly funded by Scottish Water and North Lanarkshire Council, is to ensure we have the best possible knowledge and understanding of the relationship between the above ground and below ground drainage systems in the eastern part of Cumbernauld. By working in partnership, we can better understand the interactions between these systems, and determine whether any actions are needed to reduce the risk of flooding occurring in future. This work will involve studies of assets and infrastructure in the area and will be carried out over the course of our upcoming six-year investment programme.”