Work on a “much-needed” Almondbank flood defence scheme for an area deemed at “high risk” will start later this year.
The news comes on the back of confirmation that the Scottish Government has given more than £11 million to support the project.
The funds have been awarded to Perth and Kinross Council for the £14 million Almondbank Flood Protection Scheme, which will see a series of flood defences built along the River Almond and the East Pow Burn.
The defences will comprise flood walls, raised embankments and erosion protection measures.
The area is deemed at “high risk” and two road bridges along the East Pow Burn will be replaced and raised and an existing footbridge on the River Almond will be moved and raised.
In addition, the existing playing field in the centre of the town will be modified to act as a flood storage area and this will include the replacement of the community sports pavilion.
The council applied for funding towards the scheme and this has been boosted by the Scottish Government’s announcement.
Perth and Kinross Council has already made provision within its five-year plan for the remainder of the funding.
Almondbank and Lochty have experienced a history of flooding from the River Almond and the East Pow Burn.
Serious flooding events took place in 1993, 1999 and also in January 2011.
As a result, the council hopes this scheme will reduce the risk of flooding to the community and claim it will have a “minimal impact” on the surrounding environment.
Work will begin later this year, with the flood defences in place by 2016.
The announcement has been welcomed by politicians.
Councillor Alan Livingstone, one of the representatives for the Almond and Earn ward, added: “This will be highly welcomed by the people in Almondbank and its surrounding area.
“The people of Almondbank have waited for a while for this decision so this will be a massive bonus for them and it will provide relief to worried residents.”
Councillor Alan Grant, convener of Perth and Kinross Council’s environment committee, said he felt the local authority are now in a position to “protect” the residents in Almondbank and Lochty against future flooding.
“We can offer greater assurance and peace of mind that there will be protection in place should we be faced with severe weather once the scheme is complete.”
Environment and climate change minister Paul Wheelhouse added: “I myself have witnessed the impact of flooding in communities across Scotland, which can be devastating.
“I am delighted to confirm £11.7m of funding has been agreed by Scottish Government and Cosla for an eligible new flood protection scheme for Almondbank.
“I look forward to seeing the undoubted positive impact of the scheme for local residents and businesses and hope that it has the by-product of helping to foster the confidence of individuals and businesses to invest in the area.”
The total cost of the project is £14,745,877.