Plea to Scottish Government for storm funding

24th December 2012

The Highland Council’s Leader Councillor Drew Hendry has written to the Scottish Government seeking emergency financial assistance towards the cost of repairing damage caused to piers and harbours and coastal defences by recent exceptional storms.

In a letter to Richard Lochhead, MSP, Cabinet Secretary, Rural Affairs and the Environment, Councillor Hendry says: “In Highland, the storm surge caused extensive damage along the eastern coastline between Wick and Nairn and our officials are currently carrying out detailed inspections to assess the nature and extent of the damage.

“We have experienced significant damage to existing coastal defences which threatens the homes of many coastal communities. There has been extensive damage to our harbours at Balintore and Portmahomack, as well as damage to a number of our links golf courses, a key part of our tourist industry and to a number of coastal footpaths.

“The detailed assessment has still to be completed, and this will involve underwater surveys of harbour walls, however the initial estimate is that the overall cost of repairs will be significant.

“I welcome your commitment to consider providing emergency financial assistance to meet the costs of these repairs and would very much welcome the opportunity of an early meeting with you to discuss what financial assistance the Scottish Government can provide.

 

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