A new initiative is to be discussed by Perth and Kinross Council, which could see homeowners with properties at risk of flooding benefitting from a free flood risk survey. The pilot scheme by Perth & Kinross Council, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and the Scottish Flood Forum, would see the Property Level Protection scheme take place in Aberfeldy, Comrie, Crieff and Pitlochry. These are the areas that have been deemed to have the highest flood risk in the area.

If the report is approved, residents in the areas will be offered a free flood risk survey. It would be carried out by staff from the Scottish Fire & Rescue Service and will identify the main areas where water can enter a homeowners property. The householder will also be given advice on ways to mitigate the risk, including the purchase of suitable Property Level Protection flood products. For those interested in the products, they will then be offered the opportunity to buy them at a reduced price through the Council.

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Councillor Mike Williamson, Vice-Convener of the Environment Committee, explained: "We're all used to seeing piles of sandbags around the outside of houses and in streets during floods in an effort to protect individual properties from the effects of the flood water. However, there are other more effective products available which offer greater flexibility.

"The free flood risk survey will offer advice on products which suit the build and location of an individual property. The Council can then use its buying power to purchase the required products in bulk and pass on these savings to affected residents.

"I know flooding remains a concern for people living in various parts of Perth and Kinross. If this scheme is a success with residents in the pilot areas then I would hope to see it rolled out across the whole area so that everyone can benefit."

(JP/CD)