A range of repair works has been lined up to help the residents of Alyth try to return to normality after the devastating deluge this month.
Perth and Kinross Council may have to replace at least two road bridges affected by the flash flood that hit the east Perthshire town on July 17, with residents already clearing away 150 tonnes of waste material from their properties.
In addition, the local authority plans to repair damaged and missing walls beside the Alyth Burn, and work has already started on the 23 damaged council properties.
Four footbridges were washed away in the flood and inspections of bridges and culverts in the wider area continue to be carried out.
Councillor Ian Miller, leader of Perth and Kinross Council, highlighted the efforts being made to help Alyth residents.
“Since the calamity, I have been in Alyth every day to help with the coordination of our efforts and I’m pleased to say the process of recovery is now well under way,” he said.
“The council’s housing staff has been located in Alyth since the flood and continue to operate a drop-in service at the Lesser Town Hall from 10am to 2pm daily.
“They are able to offer advice to council and private tenants and will continue to carry out door-to-door checks of affected properties and businesses as well as carrying out welfare checks, as required.
“In addition, they are working with private sector landlords to secure accommodation until affected residents can return to their homes.”
He added: “The council has also moved quickly to divert Shepherds Construction Limited from another contract and appoint them as our main contractor for repair works to council housing. Work started on Monday on the 23 damaged council properties in the town.
“Work has also commenced on the installation of a footbridge at Springbank/Cairnleith Place and work will be carried out to repair damage on remaining footbridges.
“A full programme of works, with timescales, is being compiled and works will be programmed on a priority basis.
“I want to say a heartfelt thanks to all of the many community volunteers who have worked tirelessly since the event to carry out clear up operations.”
The flood has led to extensive repairs being necessary on Tullyfergus Bridge, with the possibility the structure will need to be replaced. The upstream parapet of Blackhall Bridge is severely damaged and will require to be rebuilt.