Clwyd West AM Darren Millar has called on the Welsh Government to show some leadership to move forward a project to improve the flood defences on the Old Colwyn promenade.
Speaking in the Senedd this week Darren, who has long been calling for improvements along the stretch, said:
“There is a great concern, which I’ve raised in this Chamber on many occasions, about the Old Colwyn east promenade and the vulnerability of that part of the coast to flooding, especially given its protection of vital infrastructure in north Wales for the transport networks, in particular the A55 and the north Wales railway line.
“I know that a number of parties need to come together to resolve that particular problem, but given the Welsh Government’s interest in protecting the A55 in particular, I’d urge the Welsh Government to take the lead on this issue and bring these parties together so we can crack on and protect that part of the coast, particularly given the improvements that have been made elsewhere in the Colwyn Bay area.”
Darren added:
“I am pleased that in her response the Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Rural Affairs recognised that an appropriate solution does need to be found, but I am concerned that she said no decision has yet been made by Conwy County Borough Council. I will therefore contact the Council again and encourage them to get moving on this.
"The failure of these defences could have catastrophic consequences, not only for North Wales transport infrastructure, but also the tourism industry in this area. It is something that needs addressing and soon!”
Old Colwyn Cllr Cheryl Carlisle said:
‘The delays in improving these defences are unacceptable. We need strong leadership from the Welsh Government and full engagement from other stakeholders to ensure that our roads, rail and promenade are afforded the protection they need.’
Picture Caption: Clwyd West AM Darren Millar with Leader of the Welsh Conservatives Andrew RT Davies and Cllr Cheryl Carlisle on the Old Colwyn promenade.