David Davies MP has voiced his satisfaction at the way in which Monmouth’s new flood defence system coped when put to the test earlier this week.
Mr Davies’ seal of approval came after heavy rain and gales hit the area on Monday night. The flood defence system, which has a budget of £1.8million, has been charged with the protection of many homes in Monmouth following several years of severe localised flooding.
After visiting the site, Mr Davies said: “I am very pleased with the way in which the system managed to drain the flood water from Wonastow Road on Tuesday morning. I have been campaigning for the installation of such measures for several years and it seems that the huge amount of hard work that has been devoted to bringing this scheme to fruition has paid off.
“According to the onsite engineers, the system was not automated on Tuesday morning and had to be activated manually. I am assured that the project will be fully automated by the end of the month and, until that time, there will be someone on standby 24 hours a day. Once the system is fully operational it will automatically sense rising water levels and set about draining the water efficiently and quickly.
“I have spoken with officials at Monmouthshire County Council and they, like me, are extremely pleased with the way in which the scheme handled its first task. Commissioning is due to go ahead next week and I believe that it will be a resounding success. It is vital that Monmouth residents can feel secure in their homes and I feel that a great triumph has been witnessed here. I am very optimistic that this scheme will have a hugely positive effect on the area and I have every confidence for the future.”