THE Welsh government have announced a £56 million scheme to improve flood and coastal erosion defences in eight vulnerable areas across the country.
Among the selected locations is Machynys in Llanelli.
Speaking about their ‘ambitious’ plans, Minister for Environment Hannah Blythyn said: “Flooding can have a devastating impact on the lives of those affected. This funding of £56m further demonstrates our commitment to reduce risk and build resilience to flooding and coastal erosion.
“I’m pleased to announce this ambitious programme, which will support communities and areas right across Wales who are most at risk from flooding and coastal erosion.”
In the past Machynys was an industrialised area until Trostre works opened in the 1950’s which resulted in the closures of factories in Machynys with the land remaining derelict for years after.
The area has seen a big transformation since. It is the home of the Machynys Peninsula Golf Country Club which hosted the Wales Ladies Championship of Europe from 2005-2008.
The West side of Machynys consists of a large housing development with 175 houses forming Pentre Nicklaus. Further housing development resulted in Bwlchygwynt which is opposite Delta Lakes.
The flood defenses run along the Millennium Coastal Path and were originally built in the 1980’s to provide protection from potential coastal flooding.
A 2011 Carmarthenshire County Council document stated that “Delta Lakes and East Machynys sites are susceptible to tidal flooding.”
Residents have raised their concerns and have asked why the development of new homes went through before the flood defences had been finalised.
Speaking to Llanelli Online, AM for Llanelli Lee Waters said: “”I’m pleased that the Welsh Government have announced that Carmarthenshire County Council is to benefit from almost £2 million to strengthen flood defences in Machynys. But, given the risk of flooding, it’s absurd that hundreds of houses have been built before these defenses were in place.
“Time and again developments are being given the go-ahead before the proper infrastructure is in place.”
