MEASURES to prevent flooding in Dumbarton are expected to be installed early next year, it has been confirmed.

The Gruggies Burn Flood Prevention Scheme works will introduce hard defences from Glasgow Road to the Firth of Clyde, as well as the addition of a flood relief culvert to minimise the risk of flash flooding during prolonged periods of heavy rain.

It comes after an additional £500,000 was allocated for the 2022/23 financial year from the roads and transportation budget to accelerate the implementation of flood schemes to reduce flooding in Levenhowe, the River Leven and Gruggies Burn.

During Wednesday’s infrastructure, regeneration and economic development committee, it was revealed that work could start in the new year when the weather is better by council officers.

Questions were raised by SNP councillor Jonatham McColl, who previously raised a motion at full council, requesting officers to provide an update on the proposed [flooding] works and at the same time to produce a summary briefing that can be emailed to Levenhowe residents to bring them up to date.

Councillor McColl said: “It is good to see the information here. I appreciate there is a focus on sorting out this particular area.

“When will the burn clearing works and works on the banks be able to commence? Can I ask that local members be kept up to date on what is going on?”

He was informed by Gail Macfarlane, chief officer of roads and neighbourhoods, that work would start in January or February when the better weather comes in.

She also confirmed that they would keep members involved and updated on the progress made.

Speaking about the project, Ms Macfarlane, said: “This proposal sets out the proposed flooding elements being accelerated by the additional funding that will be made available this year.

“The design of Gruggies Burn is underway and the surface water management plan has commenced. There is no further information on the River Leven works at this stage.”