GOWER residents can see details of a flood defence scheme next week which is designed to protect their village.
The planned improvements in Penclawdd involve raising the level of the car park and the construction of new pre-cast concrete walls at the back of Glanmor Terrace and West End.
The proposed £1.8 million scheme is the result of a two-year study into reducing the possibility of flooding in Penclawdd, where 127 houses and 16 businesses are at risk from the Loughor Estuary.
The study found that the car park opposite the post office was so low it would not prevent flood water reaching the road and houses during high tide, while the poor condition of certain walls behind Glanmor Terrace and West End would not hold back tidal flooding.
Traders who spoke to the Post said flooding was not a big problem at the moment but welcomed work to minimise any risk. Franco Giamei, owner of Roma Fish Bar, Bellevue, said he had suffered the odd bit of minor flooding but not through high tides.
Referring to Natural Resources Wales's proposed scheme, he said: "If it's for the good of the community, I hope they make a good job of it."
Natural Resources Wales is also undertaking flood defence work along the River Tawe and plans to build a dam upstream from Pontarddulais to prevent flooding in the town.
Penclawdd residents can see the plans for their village in detail at a drop-in session at the community centre, Banc Bach, Penclawdd, on July 9 from 4pm to 7pm.
Natural Resources Wales officers will be present to answer questions.
Phil Pickersgill, of Natural Resources Wales, said: "Our proposals will mean that people in 143 properties in Penclawdd will be at reduced risk of flooding from the Loughor Estuary.
"Climate change is making our weather more unpredictable, and this means that flooding is likely to become more frequent in both summer and winter. By taking action now, we can help reduce the risk to people from flooding in the future.
"I'd urge people in the local area to visit us at our drop in session to find out more about how our proposals will reduce their flood risk."
