£6.5m fund announced for homes hit by flooding

Welsh Government has announced a new £6.5m fund to support local authorities and people affected by flooding during the alert level four lockdown.

Local councils are contacting householders whose properties were affected by water damage and flooding to let them know that the fund is available to help with the cost of repairs and replacing household belongings.

Julie James, Housing and Local Government Minister, said: “Dealing with the damage caused by flooding is difficult enough, but having to deal with it in the midst of a pandemic is extremely challenging.

“This fund will enable local authorities to make payments to individuals to assist them to stay in their own homes safely, to minimise contacts and the spread of the virus.

“Local authorities are working extremely hard to support people whose homes have been devastated by flooding, and I want to offer my sympathy and support to everyone who has been affected.”

Councillor Richard Young, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “While Bridgend County Borough managed to escape the worst of the recent floods which have caused so much disruption across Wales, we are aware of a number of properties which have experienced problems.

“We are in the process of contacting them, and are outlining how they can apply to help with the cost of putting things back to normal.

“I’d like to thank Welsh Government for making this support available, especially as it follows previous support which has included payments of up to £1,000. This additional help is most welcome.”