FLOOD defence works have been carried out in Rhuddlan.

The town now benefits from tidal doors, installed on the Pont Robin Cut, which will play a vital part in keeping the tide out of up to 20 homes and businesses in low-lying areas of the town.

The penstock will be operated manually by Natural Resources Wales (NRW) staff during high-tides.

Cameras and river level gauging equipment are also in place so that NRW can monitor the area remotely.

The structure is now easier to maintain and will reduce the risk of debris and silt blocking the watercourse. It also increases the time when eels and other fish species can migrate upstream.

Pont Robin

Cllr Arwel Roberts, Chairman of Rhuddlan Flood Plan, said: "This is a step in the right direction for the town of Rhuddlan.

"We cannot control the climate but we are very grateful to Natural Resources Wales for this initiative and their resources for the preparation for sudden changes in the weather.”

Keith Ivens, Flood Risk Manager, NRW said: “Keeping communities safe from flooding is a key part of our work.

“Constructing this new penstock at Pont Robin sluice provides another line of defence in reducing the risk of tidal flooding to areas of the town.

“The penstock will be lowered temporarily when required during high tides and then returned to its open position.

“Whilst we can’t prevent all flooding from happening, we work to reduce the risks to people and their properties and hope this work will provide peace of mind to people in Rhuddlan."

To find out if a free flood warning service is available for a particular area, telephone Floodline on 0345 988 1188 or visit www.naturalresources.wales/flooding.