Councillors back plans for flood prevention in Kirkwall

The construction of barriers along the seafront of Kirkwall, to protect areas from flooding in the future, has met with the approval of councillors.

The matter was discussed at today’s OIC transport and infrastructure committee, when a report before councillors presented proposals to deal with the potential of coastal flooding in the area, and included a diagram showing the area of the Ayre roundabout, along to the front of Cromwell Road. The plans showed where existing barriers are already in place, such as walls and buildings, and highlighted areas where it would be possible to install new walls, as well as new removable barriers.

The estimated costs of the work, including the new walls, temporary barriers and drainage work, as well as other costs, was stated at being £220,000.

Councillors supported the project, but were also keen to see flood prevention taking place in other areas of Orkney as well.

It was recommended that the project be moved on to stage two of the council’s Capital Project Appraisal process.