Falkirk Council is set to make a crucial decision on the future of the Grangemouth Flood Protection Scheme (GPFS), a major project aimed at safeguarding the town from the increasing threat of flooding.

The GPFS, Scotland's largest flood protection scheme, seeks to protect over 2,700 homes and 1,200 businesses from the risks posed by rising sea levels in the Forth Estuary and increased rainfall impacting three local rivers.

Following a public consultation period, Falkirk Council will now consider the feedback received from residents and businesses. Councillors will be asked to make a preliminary decision on the proposed scheme, with options including:

• Confirming the scheme without modification.

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• Confirming the scheme with modifications.

• Rejecting the proposed scheme.

A small number of objections have been raised, primarily concerning the visual impact of the proposed measures and potential disruption during construction.

Following the preliminary decision, Scottish Ministers will be advised, and may recommend a Public Local Inquiry or a local hearing to further consider any outstanding objections.

The final decision on the GPFS will be made following these further processes, with detailed design and construction work to follow in subsequent years.

Malcolm Bennie, Director of Place Services said: "Flooding poses a serious threat to many homes and businesses in the wider Grangemouth area. This scheme outlines the ways we can reduce those risks and support the long-term resilience of the area.

"We have worked hard to address concerns raised during consultation and will continue to engage with the community as the project progresses.

"It is now up to elected members to decide the way forward for the scheme."

The report also updates Elected Members on the progress of the GFPS Taskforce which was set up between the Scottish Government and Falkirk Council to explore how to fund construction of the scheme and deliver it in multiple phases over the coming years.