An innovative flood management pilot scheme on Anglesey recently won a nationally acclaimed award.
The Dwyran National Flood Management initiative (NFM) was recognised for its work on improving biodiversity and reducing flooding at the ICE Wales Cymru 2023 award ceremony, winning the Chair’s Special Award.
The award is presented to projects that demonstrate exceptional skill and expertise, or that make an exceptional contribution to the profession.
The project area in Dwyran had been known to flood during heavy rainfall events, with several properties suffering internal floods as floodwater extended onto the floodplain.
Group Engineer with Isle of Anglesey County Council’s Highways Service, Rowland Thomas said, “The innovative pilot scheme was funded by the Welsh Government and is part of a national NFM initiative on the research frontier.
It formed a pilot study to use Natural Flood Management (NFM) as a means of reducing surface water flood risk and create a biodiversity rich wetland area at Dwyran.” Ruthin-based WaterCo were appointed as specialist design consultants and Alun Griffiths (Contractors) Ltd appointed for the construction of a series of earth bunds, ponds, and channels, intended to intercept flood water.
The award helps recognize the importance of innovation in flood risk management. The pilot scheme will help pave the way for future flood prevention and biodiversity project, as well as offer hope and reassurance to local residents.
Last year another innovative project, The Mill Lane flood prevention scheme in Beaumaris, won The Roy Edward’s award at ICE Wales Cymru 2022.
Anglesey’s Highways Portfolio Holder, Councillor Dafydd Rhys Thomas, added, “With the increasing threat of climate change and extreme weather-related incidents, adequate flood defences are essential to protect our communities.” “We are working with partners on innovations, like this award-winning scheme at Dwyran, to help reduce the risks of flooding, whilst also promoting and improving biodiversity.”
Ends 5 October 2023