Commenting after being contacted by concerned villagers in Garmouth and Kingstoin regarding the ongoing threat of flooding in the area local MP Douglas Ross said –
“The situation of flooding in Garmouth and Kingston continues to be an issue of real concern for local residents and they are still waiting for solutions after years and years of campaigning.
“There is little comfort to be taken from a recent council decision to investigate further options, which may or may not see limited defences built up to protect Garmouth from the River Spey. We’ve been here too many times before. We don’t need more options, we need action.
“With heavy rainfall events occurring with much greater frequency, and when combined with seasonal high tides, the risk to people, property and farmland is all too real for local people.
“One local Garmouth resident has been flooded a staggering 11 times in a 12-month period and I can only imagine the anguish this causes them with the difficulties of constantly repairing their property, and losing items of great sentimental value.
“Likewise, those living along Beach Road at Kingston fear each high tide with erosion of the shingle bank along the shoreline causing real concern. This is their only protection from the sea and whilst Moray Council sits back, taking what they call a ‘watching brief’ on the shingle bank, homeowners are frustrated at the lack of progress in shoring up the bank or installing rock armour to provide a greater level of confidence.
“Working with local councillor Marc Macrae and the community I will continue to seek solutions, but we need the council to fully grasp the seriousness of the situation and finally agree to act to protect Garmouth and Kingston.”