Welsh council to buy and demolish street of homes at growing risk of floods due to climate change

“The risk of flooding is ever-increasing due to climate change, with home insurance costs unaffordable and residents facing no prospect of a resolution,” they added.

The decision follows “several instances” of major flooding, including during Storm Dennis in 2020, when floodwater inside the homes reached almost two metres high and much of the pavement and highway were “underwater”.

The properties were extensively damaged, and residents have had difficulty in obtaining insurance due to its very high cost, RCT said.

Last year, government body Natural Resources Wales said that building a flood defence wall was “not economically viable”, and that it was not in a position to consider acquisition of the existing built properties. 

This prompted council officials in Rhondda Cynon Taf to explore alternative options.

A report to cabinet last week recommended the authorisation of the acquisition of 1-16 Clydach Terrace, excluding two properties that are built at an elevated position and do not face a significant flood risk.

It also recommended that officers are authorised to progress preparations for the buildings’ future demolition, and to develop a public realm for the site.

The council said officers have met with residents to provide assurance around support to relocate and its housing team has been in contact with residents to discuss their needs and concerns.

Meanwhile, the council has engaged an independent chartered valuer for the properties.

A spokesperson for RCT Council said: “Clydach Terrace residents faced a danger-to-life scenario in Storm Dennis, where flooding inside their homes reached almost two metres high. The risk of flooding is ever increasing due to climate change, with home insurance costs unaffordable and residents facing no prospect of a resolution.

“This is extremely damaging to the mental health of residents, every time that wet weather is forecast. This is a unique set of circumstances at Clydach Terrace, which is why the council has intervened.

“Following cabinet’s approval on Monday, officers will progress with the acquisition of the properties while continuing to work very closely with the local community, to fully support the affected residents.

“We’d also like to thank residents at Clydach Terrace for their constructive engagement, in very difficult circumstances. Officers will also start planning future public use of the area.”