“Worthwhile” flood defence exercise

The OIC has thanked members of the local Coastguard and RNLI for joining Council staff in a planned flood defence exercise in Kirkwall on Friday (7 October).

Everyone pitched in, gaining experience in both erecting and dismantling the boards and swing gates along the harbourfront.

This was part of the Council’s routine winter preparations.

Corporate Director for Neighbourhood Services and Infrastructure, Hayley Green, said: “The feedback from those taking part in this test run of the flood defences is that it was a very worthwhile exercise. It was also able to flag any minor issues that required attention.

“Our thanks go to all colleagues who gave up their valuable time to take part and familiarise themselves with the setup so that they can be of assistance in future if needed.”

Folk who live and work in Kirkwall can sign up for SEPA’s Floodline coastal flood warning service for Kirkwall, which can provide some advance warning when coastal flooding is likely to occur and when these flood barriers might be deployed. SEPA’s flood warnings are also available for areas across Orkney - sign up by calling 0345 988 1188 or online atwww.sepa.org.uk

You can also follow the Council’s Roads team on Twitter at twitter.com/oic_roadsOur roads team issue updates via Twitter when the flood defences are – or are likely to be – deployed. Similarly the feed also provides updates when the Churchill Barriers are closed, or when closure is under consideration.

To receive SEPA Flood Alerts for Orkney and Flood Warnings for Burray, the Churchill Barriers, Hoy and Walls, Kirkwall, Sanday, Scapa, St Margaret’s Hope, Stronsay or Westray, sign up to Floodline by calling 0345 988 1188or signing up online atwww.sepa.org.uk

Watch a video here about the Kirkwall Flood Defence Scheme on the Council's Youtube channel