Cree flood protection scheme blasted

PLANS for controversial flood protection schemes in Newton Stewart and Dumfries were slammed this week as a ‘a failure of governance’.

As flood warnings were once again issued for Newton Stewart after the Cree burst its banks on Monday, Galloway and West MSP Finlay Carson hit out at the council’s plan.

Speaking during a Scottish Parliament debate on climate resilience, he stated that climate change is already hitting communities hard with heavier rainfall, frequent storms and volatile rivers.

But the MSP stressed that while flood protection is essential, the current schemes are ‘poorly managed and lack public confidence’.

Mr Carson said: “The next storm will not wait for excuses. It will not wait for another committee meeting.

“Our communities need competent, transparent and accountable action now. Anything less is a betrayal of public trust.”

The MSP also criticised delays to the Newton Stewart scheme after the council failed to meet statutory duties during the environmental impact assessment process.

He also urged the council to commit to an enforceable timetable for Newton Stewart and ensure genuine consultation before designs are finalised adding: “Negligence forced Scottish Government intervention and pushed the process back into 2026. That is unacceptable.

“Governance is about listening, not imposing. On that test, the SNP administration has failed.”

However, Dumfries and Galloway Council has defended both schemes stating that they are ‘essential’ for both towns and are ‘fully committed’ to seeing them through.

A council spokesman said: “Dumfries and Galloway Council recognises the increasing flood risk facing our region and our responsibility to protect people, property and vital infrastructure.

“We also remain fully committed to progressing the Newton Stewart Flood Protection Scheme. Following Scottish Government’s direction to hold a Hearing, one consultee requested a full Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), which is now underway.

“Some ecological surveys can only be undertaken during low flows or in spring, so the EIA is expected to conclude mid to late summer 2026, after which the Hearing will resume.

“Flood protection is not optional – it is essential. We remain committed to delivering schemes that are transparent, accountable and shaped by consultation, while exploring complementary natural flood management measures.”