Perth flood gates closed after night of heavy rain
ByJamie Buchan
Flood defences in Perth have been activated after a night of heavy rain.
Council bosses have announced they will be closing city centre flood gates as the River Tay rises to worrying levels.
It is hoped the gates will prevent the river from overflowing onto surrounding streets and properties.
The Queen’s Bridge, which was temporarily shut when Storm Desmond hit three weeks ago, remains open.
A spokeswoman for the local authority said: “Discussions with SEPA early this morning indicate a level in the Tay at high tide today that may result in the Tay overtopping at known locations. Closure of the gates will prevent this happening.
“Unfortunately due to the Christmas holidays and the strong likliehood of requiring standby personnel to do gritting on the road network we will not be able to re-open most gates until Tuesday, December 29 at the earliest, and only if weather conditions improve.”
She added: “The Council will endeavour to open gates that adversely affect business operation as soon as is possible.”
Meanwhile, flooding has forced the closure of the B954 at Crathies Bridge, The Avenue in Aberfeldy and the C423 Aberborthrie at Cronan Bridge.
Perth flood gates closed after night of heavy rain