Aberdeen Denburn flood defence plans unveiled

The flood defence plans have been outlined. Picture: TSPL

The scheme includes a water detention pond, which is planned for a flood plain area near Stronsay Drive and King’s Gate, and will be designed to hold back large quantities of water at times of exception rainfall to prevent flooding downstream.

A city council spokeswoman said: “The scheme will provide protection from fluvial flooding for a one-in-200-year event for properties in the Queen’s Cross, Fountainhall, Mackie Place, and Jack’s Brae areas. There were three flooding events in the Queen’s Cross and Fountainhall area in 2012.

“A major factor in those floods was the Denburn overflowing onto Beaconsfield Lane and Fountainhall Road, causing damage to surrounding properties.”

She continued: “A wall of sandbags has been erected along the Denburn at Beaconsfield Lane as an interim measure, but work has been ongoing to find a permanent solution. The water detention pond, which is planned for a flood plain area near Stronsay Drive and King’s Gate, is designed to hold back large quantities of water at times of exception rainfall and preventing flooding downstream.

“The proposal is to use an area of the floodplain and allow it to flood for a short period to greater depth than it does presently. Normal flows of water would be allowed to pass under King’s Gate, but higher flows would be restricted.

“This is similar to the existing flood detention ponds at Westburn Park and on the Glashieburn at Scotstown Road. Council officers will arrange a public meeting to explain the proposed flood protection scheme early next year.”

Ross Thomson, the Conservative Councillor for the West End of Aberdeen, welcomed the new flood protection scheme.

He said: “The West End of Aberdeen has been hit particularly badly by flooding in recent years and as the local Councillor for the area I am well aware of the concerns of local residents and businesses about flooding which causes significant devastation, damage and distress.”

He continued: “The council has been working to address these problems and this year a wall of sandbags was erected along the Denburn at Beaconsfield lane as a temporary preventative measure and the Council has been working to clear blockages in nearby drains. I am delighted that a more permanent solution has been devised and I am very supportive of it.

“I know residents and local businesses were concerned at the temporary nature of the current flood prevention measures and I hope that this more permanent scheme will provide the reassurance businesses and residents need.”