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Response to Alyth flood crisis criticised

Response to Alyth flood crisis criticised

Council bosses have been criticised for an apparent lack of support in the immediate aftermath of flooding at Alyth.

Properties throughout the Perthshire town were left devastated when a burn bursts its banks during torrential downpours on Friday morning.

The flash flood is thought to have caused millions of pounds worth of damage and it may take several months for some businesses and homes to be restored.

Councillor Dennis Melloy praised the “outstanding community spirit” which followed the incident.

However, he has said more should have been done by Perth and Kinross Council after the initial rescue work.

“I can’t fault the council for their excellent initial response to this unexpected emergency,” he said.

“The roads department, housing and health and Tayside Contracts were all magnificent with staff working 12 hours in a very difficult and dangerous environment.

“However, no official council facility was set up in the town hall to co-ordinate the various local volunteers who were making decisions for worried residents asking for advice or help.

“This should have been in place immediately, as soon as an emergency situation was identified.”

Mr Melloy added: “The housing and community care team worked tirelessly and also could have done with some much needed assistance.

“We must all thank the many local volunteers for taking control of the situation and just getting on with it.

“I have asked that this be looked at as a matter of urgency.”

Council leader Ian Miller said he “strongly refuted” Mr Melloy’s comments.

“Having been on the ground myself every day since the flood occurred, I have witnessed first-hand the tremendous efforts made by the community and all agencies, including the council.”

Mr Miller said there were more than 60 council staff on duty and deployed to the town.

“The council has had a significant presence in Alyth and the surrounding area since the weekend and will continue to do so,” he said.

Local MSP Murdo Fraser, who visited the town and met flood victims, said: “Whilst the priority for now must be help for those who need it, we do need to look at whether there were any steps that could have been taken to minimise the impact.”