Public consultation begins on major tidal flood risk management scheme

A public consultation has opened on plans for a major scheme aimed at protecting dozens of homes and businesses from tidal flooding in west Wales.

Cardigan has been identified as the focus of the proposed works, with Natural Resources Wales (NRW) launching a consultation on designs to reduce flood risk to around 90 properties.

The consultation, which opened on Tuesday 7 April, invites residents, businesses and community groups to review the plans and submit feedback before a planning application is lodged. It will run until Monday 18 May 2026.

Parts of the town have experienced significant disruption from tidal flooding in recent years, with high tides forcing water onto roads and into homes and commercial premises.

NRW said the risk is expected to increase as sea levels rise and climate change leads to more frequent and severe tidal events. Areas along the north bank of the Afon Teifi are considered particularly vulnerable.

The proposed scheme would see the construction of a new flood defence wall along the river, designed to provide long-term protection. Plans also include strengthening sections of the riverbank, creating new public spaces along the Strand, and introducing areas of intertidal habitat where the wall would be set further back.

However, the proposals would also result in changes to existing infrastructure. Part of the flood wall would be built within Gloster Row car park, leading to the permanent closure of the current slipway into the river.

Bethan Hill, project manager at NRW, said reducing tidal flood risk was a priority for the town.

She said: “Tidal floods can cause real worry, damage and disruption, and we want to minimise the risk of this for the future.

“We hope that residents, businesses, river users and community groups will use this opportunity to share their views and help guide the future design of this important flood risk management scheme.”

Surveys

Members of the public can view the plans online via a dedicated consultation webpage, where design documents and an accompanying survey are available.

Printed copies of the proposals can also be accessed at Cardigan Library. In addition, a public drop-in session will take place between 1pm and 7pm on Wednesday 13 May at the Tower Room in Cardigan Castle, where residents can speak directly with the project team.

Following the consultation, NRW will publish a report outlining how feedback has informed the final design before submitting a full planning application to the local authority.