Call for ‘leadership’ in helping flood-hit community
The Scottish Government failed Brechin after Storm Babet, leaving residents unsupported, unprotected and burdened by delays and neglect, MSPs have been told.
In October 2023, Storm Babet overtopped the South Esk, overwhelmed the town’s flood defences and left entire streets under water, sparking the evacuation of hundreds of residents.
Eighty-five council houses were ruined by flooding and might not be rebuilt until 2030 at the earliest. More than 30 privately owned homes were also affected.
In the months that followed, Brechin was left dealing with long‑term devastation and there remains uncertainty over future flood protection and how it will be paid for.
At Holyrood, North east MSP Tess White spoke during a parliamentary debate on flood resilience to highlight the plight of families who have still not returned home, more than two years on.
Ms White said: “Many have told me that, every time it rains, they fear that the nightmare will begin all over again. Ministers were quick to appear for photo opportunities in the aftermath, but they have been far slower to deliver the funding and decisions that are needed to prevent a repeat.
“As a result, local government has been left to pick up the pieces. Angus Council wants to rebuild River Street and improve flood protection, but it cannot do so alone. The cost has been estimated at £15 million over 30 years - beyond the council’s means without government support. That leaves Angus Council in an impossible position: it is responsible for delivery but is denied the resources to act.
“Flooding has crippled local businesses, none more so than Matrix International. The company, which employed about 100 people, was so badly flooded that it was forced to scale back its operations, and ultimately closed.
“The Scottish Government’s flood recovery support amounted to just £3000. What has sustained communities such as Brechin has been community spirit, with volunteers, council staff and emergency services involved and neighbours helping neighbours.
“Goodwill alone cannot replace leadership, and the government should have matched the resilience of communities with real action and proper investment.”