Most of the City and County of Swansea that is at risk of flooding is protected by defence systems that have been developed over many years. However, over 4,000 residential and commercial properties in Swansea are located in flood plains, with millions of pounds worth of assets at risk from flooding. Climate change is expected to have significant effects on rainfall patterns and sea level and this will put many more coastal and riverside communities and businesses at increased risk of flooding. Flood defences may need additional maintenance in some areas of higher risk such as the Lower Swansea Valley, Loughor Estuary and North Gower coast to ensure the flood risk to existing properties is minimised.

Reducing flood risk is not just simply about building strong defences, however. Employing ‘soft engineering’ solutions, such as wetlands creation and managed retreat schemes, may be more effective in the longer term. Above all, ensuring that new development is directed away from river and coastal flood plains is fundamental.

Increasing our understanding of flood risk and better modelling will make it easier to prepare effectively. Improving the information given to householders and businesses that are at greater risk and encouraging involvement in the flood warning system are also important.