Road flood alerts 'don't like operating in wet'

A council has pledged "full commitment" to improve warning systems on a flood-prone road amid claims existing signs "don't like operating when it's wet".

Councillor Rhys Jordan told a Pembrokeshire council meeting the road at Gumfreston, Tenby, flooded on Wednesday but the system had not worked.

"It seems to work when the road is not flooded, but they don't like operating when it's wet," he told a council meeting.

Transport and environment director Darren Thomas said it had "difficulty with the supplier of the signs" but "officers are trying to get this fixed".

In a submitted question to the meeting, Mr Jordan asked: "As we approach the autumn and winter months, which will likely bring further disruptions for residents and visitors entering and exiting Tenby via Gumfreston, can the cabinet member for resident services update us on the progress made toward improving the flood warning system in the Gumfreston area?"

Councillor Rhys Sinnett replied, saying Natural Resources Wales (NRW) was looking at consultants producing a long list of options for a potential flood risk management scheme for the River Ritec catchment area which is on a flood plain.

"NRW already have a flood warning system in place for the river.

"I would urge all users and all local residents to sign up to receive flood alerts."

He said an automated warning sign system was already in place, with plans for an additional water depth gauge to be installed.

In a supplementary question, Mr Jordan asked for "assurances that the flood warning system will actually work this autumn and winter".

He said, on Wednesday, the road was "flooded and no warning signs were on".

Mr Jordan described it as "probably the most closed road in the county".

Mr Sinnett said: "If there are problems with the system, then we need to sort that out.

"Members of the public need to have that reassurance that things are working as best they can."

Mr Thomas told councillors there had been difficulty with the supplier of the signs, despite regular discussions, with the council considering a change of supplier.

"It's not something we've left lying; you have full commitment that officers are trying to get this fixed," he said.