Scottish Labour MSP Carol Mochan has said that she was “shocked” to see the flooding conditions in New Cumnock, following recent storms in the area.
The South Scotland MSP said the problem was raised repeatedly while she and other Scottish Labour campaigners were out knocking on doors in the area ahead of May’s council election.
She said many residents raised serious concerns about the blockage of public drains following some of the worst storms in Ayrshire for years.
New Cumnock has had a history of serious flooding.
Speaking about the conditions, Ms Mochan said: “I was shocked to see just how blocked a significant number of the public drains were around New Cumnock this weekend.
“It is clear that many residents feel serious problems are on the way if this is not sorted, in some cases the drain was blocked all the way to the surface.
“New Cumnock has a long history of issues with flooding and it just cannot be left in this state. I have contacted the council and Scottish Water and I expect this to be dealt with accordingly.”
Multiple storms have hit the UK over recent weeks, with more on the way, raising residents’ fears that backed up drains will lead to floods that will damage properties and put lives at risk.
Millions of pounds have been invested in flood prevention works over recent years in New Cumnock and the surrounding areas.
Ms Mochan added: “Whilst I appreciate a lot of money has been spent to get flooding under control in this area it is always going to be a constant fight against the elements.
"I am well aware many parts of the country will be experiencing similar problems over recent weeks, as such it is important all local representatives make it known that this problem needs to be fixed to make sure attention is not taken away from New Cumnock.”
An East Ayrshire Council spokesperson said the authority has a drains and gullies programme to deal with issues like this, and that blocked drains should be reported via the Ayrshire Roads Alliance website.
They also said parked cars are a big issue for the authority’s workers when they are attempting to clear drains.
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