ONLY one objection was made in relation to the New Cumnock Flood Prevention Scheme.

This was from a local farmer who wanted to know if the council would inform him if the proposals would have any negative impact on his land.

The council liaised with the farmer’s agents and assured him that they would take all reasonable steps to ensure that he will not be worse off as a result of the proposed works.

As it was made on procedural grounds, and not objecting to the scheme itself, the objection was consequently withdrawn, enabling the project to go ahead as planned.

Covering the Connel Burn, Afton Water and River Nith areas, the scheme has now passed the appropriate statutory consultation stages and will be put in place.

Properties in Miller Road and Afton Bridgend were badly flooded on December 30, 2015, prompting action which included the setting up of a working group.

In March this year, East Ayrshire Council committed to delivering full schemes for New Cumnock and the Leggate with £600,000 funding made available to cover design costs.

One of the main methods of flood prevention will be the creation of rock armour — a barrier of large boulders and similar material — on the right hand side of the Afton Water.

It works by absorbing and deflecting the impact of flood water before it can cause any damage, while gaps between the rocks trap and slow the flow of water.

Deputy chief executive, Chris McAleavy, said: “The cost of the scheme is estimated at £3.3m and will attract 80 per cent funding from the Scottish Government.

“It is included in the list of 40 eligible flood management schemes approved by Holyrood. The project will provide economic and physical benefits to the community.

“The scheme will also improve business continuity within the communities currently at risk from flooding and will contribute to the council’s safer communities objectives.”

Stewart Turner of Ayrshire Roads Alliance has been appointed implementation officer for the flood prevention scheme.

Billy Crawford, councillor for Cumnock and New Cumnock congratulated all concerned with the progress made in making the scheme a reality.

He said: “It has been a long awaited scheme. The people in New Cumnock are the ones who have been suffering. They are looking forward to the improvements.”