Storm Babet: Council asks residents worst affected by floods to share views on recovery

Angus Council is asking those worst affected by Storm Babet to come forward to help protect the region from future flooding.

Three people died, and hundreds fled their homes as the storm brought flooding and 70mph gusts of wind through the north east of Scotland in October 2023.

Brechin, in Angus, was at the epicentre of Storm Babet – and the town is still recovering one year on.

Hundreds fled their properties when the River South Esk burst its banks and overtopped flood defences, which sent water pouring into the lower floors of many properties.

The council wants the community to be at the heart of “challenging decisions” about the town regarding its recovery and regeneration, housing decisions, and future flood prevention.

A flood protection scheme that became operational in Brechin in 2016 to guard against raised river levels was overwhelmed when levels rose to a historic 4.6 metres.

Other areas of Angus were also severely affected, including Tannadice, Finavon, Monifieth and Montrose.

Storm Babet was the first of nine storms of the 2023-24 season, and storms Ciaran, Gerrit, Isha, and Jocelyn caused further damage in the region.

At a meeting on Thursday, November 7, councillors will be asked to note the response and recovery activities that have been carried out so far.

Council Leader Bill Duff said: “The clear aim has been to explore all options that may be possible before identifying what is actually achievable, affordable and of the best benefit to the local community.

“That is why it is essential that we engage with the local community on what their preferences would be. We have heard a wide range of views, thoughts and feelings through the contact we have had with the community during the year since Storm Babet.

“But, as the options and possible solutions come into sharper focus, we want the community to be fully informed, for them to express what matters to them and for their voices to be heard.

“There is no easy solution that will allow the flood recovery to meet the aims and aspirations of every single person.

“But an inclusive and lively engagement process with stakeholder groups and as many individuals as possible will undoubtedly help us all to reach outcomes that are best for our local community.”

Homes were destroyed during Storm Babet. STV News

The council will also hear an update on the recovery work that has taken place since the storm, which caused a record-breaking 150-200mm of rain to fall in the wettest parts of Angus between October 18 and 21 last year.

Brechin Councillor Chris Beattie added: “We have spoken with residents who are fearful at the thought of moving back to River Street after the flooding and others who still live there and who feel isolated and frightened.

“The impact of Storm Babet cannot be underestimated – a community has been lost there.

“We must look at the options that are of most benefit to the community and affordable to us and ensure that any decisions on the future of the area are guided by an informed community.

“We want to hear from tenants, home and business owners and we especially want to engage with young people as, after all, the decisions we take now will shape Brechin for years to come. Community engagement is key.”

Angus Council chief executive, Kathryn Lindsay said: “Along with our partners, we have provided a wide range of support and information to residents and businesses affected by the immediate and ongoing impacts of Storm Babet, which was unprecedented in its scale and impact.

“Angus Council has distributed all funding received from Scottish Government and has allocated Council funds, workforce, and resources into efforts to assist businesses and residents.

“We are grateful for the continued efforts of the community, and we understand that people want to continue to have as much information as possible about what did happen and the actions that can be taken to protect against future severe weather events.

“These two studies by independent experts will underpin detailed engagement with the community and the development of recommendations and long-term options for the area’s housing and for protection against future flood events.

“It is a complex process, and we want to make sure that people are aware of the detail of these reports and have opportunities to influence the development of recommendations for action.

“We will continue to keep our citizens updated on this process and I would encourage them to get involved and have their say.”