FUNDING has been allocated to provide Dyserth with flood barriers after the village was particularly badly affected by storms at the end of last year.
Denbighshire County Council said it is “in the early stages” of acquiring the barriers, which will aim to enhance protection from flooding to residents in Dyserth.
It is believed that there will be 60 new barriers put in place, and will be “stackable” and a metre long in length each.
The village was particularly badly affected by Storm Babet in October 2023, with The New Inn pub having to temporarily close and incurring thousands of pounds’ worth of damage.
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Jason Vernon, who runs his vintage store Retroelectro from his Dyserth home, has since helped put together the Dyserth Initiative for Local Flood Support group.
He said: “The council are buying the barriers themselves for us to use – I’ve been told there will be 60 of them, costing more than £100 each, so it’s a substantial investment from the council.
“They’re being ordered in next few weeks, and hopefully will all be in place before things might start up again, weather-wise.
“It’s absolutely incredible. Throughout all of this, Denbighshire County Council have been very good. There seems to be a real push from them since Storm Babet to support us in this.
“They were here earlier this week checking that all the culverts were clear, and have done that three of four times since the flooding last year.”
Jason added that the group has also been allocated funding from Dyserth Community Council, and will be taking part in various fundraising activities during the summer.
The group has drawn up a “flood plan”, with various priority areas having been identified.
He said: “I think the main focus is going to be opposite the waterfall, and then alongside the river at various points, where homes are most prone to flooding – that’s where the main issues are.
“Having the flood barriers is such a large part of being able to keep that water under control, so it will really help those vulnerable properties keep it at bay.
“We’re actively looking to recruit more flood wardens to volunteer their services during times of flooding - we’ve got eight so far, but I’d like at least 16.”
If you are interested in volunteering as a flood warden in Dyserth, the best way to get in touch is via the group’s Facebook page - www.facebook.com/groups/2118145115195878.
A Denbighshire County Council spokesperson said: “The council are in contact with the local flood action group in Dyserth, and are in the early stages of acquiring flood barriers which can be set up in various locations to help manage flood risks.”
James Davies, MP for Vale of Clwyd, added: "I welcome this development.
"It is not going to solve all of Dyserth’s flood issues, which are numerous, and we need to see belated progress on a comprehensive ‘Flood Alleviation Scheme’.
"However, the barriers will provide welcome protection to many properties and I would like to credit Jason Vernon and the Dyserth Initiative for Local Flood Support for their critical role in pushing for progress."
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