Members of a Fife community previously blighted by flooding can now breathe a huge sigh of relief following the installation of Scotland’s first “self-closing” flood barrier.
The Freuchie Mill area has been devastated by flooding in the past, leaving residents to live in fear every time there is a heavy downpour. However, that should be over with the installation of an innovative protection scheme.
Crews from Fife Fire and Rescue descended on the site to test the barriers on Wednesday, which have been funded by Kingdom Housing Association and installed by UK Flood Barriers.
UK Flood Barriers chief executive Frank Kelly explained the science behind the scheme.
“The unique passive flood defence system uses the power of the rising water to automatically deploy the barrier, which rises like a floating wall, always staying ahead of the flood,” he said.
“We were delighted to be here to witness this Scottish first. The self-closing barrier is an extremely versatile and dynamic structure … which can help to minimise the devastation caused by extreme high waters or flash flooding.”
In 2008 severe flooding affected several properties in Freuchie Mill. Furniture and possessions were ruined and at least 20 cars destroyed. Part of one garden totally collapsed, leaving a gaping hole around 12 metres wide.
Shocked residents told how water rose in a matter of minutes, running like a “torrent” through their street.
John Thomson of the Freuchie Flood Action Group said the scheme would protect several properties but warned that further action is still required for the wider community.
“We had highlighted the risk in this particular area so we are happy to see action being taken,” he said. “It will be interesting to see what happens the first time it is tested for real by the elements, but it is a decent piece of engineering so I am fairly confident it will work.”
While the new installation will bring relief to the owners of several cottages, Mr Thomson who blogs at www.floodaction.org.uk said Freuchie remains a high-risk site.
“We still have huge concerns about the wider area,” he said. “I believe it is now a priority area for a council flood study, which is important as there are serious issues here.
“However, this is certainly a step forward and lots of smaller projects like this can ultimately make a big difference.”
While the new barrier at Freuchie Mill is just two metres wide, residents hope it will provide peace of mind for many years to come.