12.08.14
Scottish government offers extra flood support for councils
The Scottish government is offering emergency financial support to local authorities to help deal with the costs of flood damage across the country.
Ministers made the decision to activate the Bellwin Scheme, which provides special financial assistance to local authorities who have been faced with an undue financial burden as a result of recent flooding, following representations from Moray Council.
The announcement also comes as emergency services across the country, and in particular the north-east, battled strong winds and torrential rain to protect properties with sandbags and to evacuate those vulnerable and most at risk. There are currently still 38 flood warnings and seven flood alerts in place.
Finance secretary John Swinney said: “We know, and I have seen for myself, just how devastating the effects of flooding can be for our communities.
“That is why I have agreed to activate the Bellwin Scheme to provide support to affected councils to assist with immediate and unforeseen costs of dealing with the aftermath of the severe weather.”
The Scottish government will consider all eligible expenditure under the terms of the Bellwin Scheme when formal claims have been received from the councils.
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