A controversial flood defence plan in North Wales has sparked an uproar among residents, with comparisons to a maximum-security prison. The proposed scheme, set to begin this summer, has raised concerns about its visual impact and potential safety issues.
'A Wall of Controversy'
The plan involves constructing a new flood defence wall along Barmouth's north promenade, with a height ranging from 1.55 to 1.7 meters. This has caused an outcry from locals, who fear it will obstruct views, create a sense of enclosure, and potentially attract anti-social behavior.
Resident Kye Smith, a construction worker, has taken matters into his own hands. He propped up planks to demonstrate the wall's height and even created visual representations to show its impact. "It will feel like living in a prison," he stated.
But Here's Where It Gets Controversial...
The council's consultants, YGC, have ruled out raising the primary wall due to its visual impact on the tourist-reliant town. Instead, they propose increasing the height of a secondary wall set back from the seafront. However, Kye argues that this wall is unnecessary and impractical, especially considering the consultants' claim that the new rock armour will reduce wave overtopping at the primary wall.
He suggests an alternative design, supported by piles, to improve the secondary wall without detracting from the existing stone wall's character.
A Divided Community
Not all residents share Kye's concerns. Some argue that graffiti isn't an issue in Barmouth, and a higher flood defence wall could screen passing traffic.
The original plan included a 10-meter-wide rock revetment along the promenade, but this has been expanded to 18 meters, raising concerns about the loss of beach space.
Rock Armour: A Necessary Evil?
The new rock armour is intended to reduce flooding on the promenade, but Kye believes there's a better, less intrusive solution. He worries about the safety of tourists, especially families with children, who may climb over the rocks. He cites an incident in Tywyn where a young girl became trapped, requiring a multi-agency rescue operation.
An Artificial Reef: A Viable Alternative?
Kye proposes an innovative solution: an artificial reef. He suggests dumping the rocks needed for the revetment at sea, creating an offshore reef. This, he believes, would provide better protection, support marine life, and reduce the impact of waves on the beach.
The Loss of Sand and Beach Space
The deterioration of beach groynes and the construction of a causeway to Ynys y Brawd have contributed to sand loss from the north beach. Kye argues that retaining and restoring the groynes could offer a partial solution. He believes an artificial reef, combined with groyne restoration and beach renourishment, would be a more effective approach.
'Eight Million Litres of Water'
While the need for upgraded flood defences is acknowledged, Kye raises concerns about the current plan's effectiveness. He highlights issues with drainage along the primary wall, suggesting larger drain-offs with non-return valves. He also calls for a fire emergency plan and clarity on the operation of floodgates.
The scheme is scheduled for completion by summer 2028, with potential design tweaks along the way.
And This Is the Part Most People Miss...
The impact of these flood defences extends beyond aesthetics and safety. It raises questions about the balance between flood protection and preserving the character of the town, especially in a region heavily reliant on tourism.
What do you think? Is the proposed flood defence plan the best solution, or are there alternative approaches worth considering? Share your thoughts in the comments!
