Plans submitted for huge coastal defence scheme to save Cardiff from floods

Alex Seabrook, local democracy reporter

Plans have been submitted for a huge coastal defence scheme to save large parts of Cardiff from floods.

New barriers would replace existing defences from Rover Way to the Lamby Way Recycling Centre, along the mouth of the Rhymney River.

The Severn estuary has eroded some of the current defences, and the risk of flooding is growing due to climate change.

Details of the scheme were released in April when Cardiff council requested an environmental impact assessment. The cabinet then approved the scheme in June.

After the cabinet approval, Councillor Michael Michael, cabinet member for clean streets, recycling and environment, said: “The greatest risk to Cardiff right now is flooding and rising sea levels caused by climate change.

“Our flood defences along the foreshore by Rover Way are in a poor condition and only have a short-to-medium-term lifespan, so it’s really important that action is taken now to safeguard this part of the city.”

The council has now applied for planning permission for the works, marking a major step forward. The scheme has not yet been granted planning permission, and it’s unclear when this might happen.

Works are likely to begin on site in February next year, and finish by October 2023. The Welsh Government will fund 85 per cent of the works with the council paying the rest.

‘Scientists have warned’ 

Scientists have warned Cardiff could be hit badly by rising sea levels, including people living in Splott and Tremorfa.

Cllr Michael added: “The coastal protection scheme will see 100,000 tonnes of rock used on the coastline, with the river bank behind being raised, as well as the embankments next to the highway.

“Steel sheeting will have to be drilled 12 metres into the bedrock of the river to retain the structure of the riverbank and the coastal path will then be built on top of the raised embankment, so that access along the river foreshore is maintained for the public to use.

“We hope all the work could be carried out by 2023 — safeguarding homes, businesses and livelihoods for years to come.”

The works include placing rock armour on the foreshore along both sides of the Rhymney river, metal walls, concrete walls and earth embankments.

People interested in viewing the full plans can search the reference 21/02138/MJR on the council’s website.