It is a terrifying issue that troubles countless communities across our local constituency.
Now residents and families are being urged to share their experiences of flooding to help inform future plans.
They are being asked to inform how flood risk is managed as work continues on Scotland’s next Flood Risk Management Plans.
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency’s (SEPA) wants to find out about local flooding concerns in areas identified as having the highest flood risk such as Newton Stewart and Whitesands in Dumfries.
Local constituency MSP Finlay Carson has welcomed the initiative and is urging as many people, who have experienced flooding, to come forward with their stories.
He said: “As we have witnessed recently flooding is already affecting communities across Scotland, and climate change is increasing the likelihood of heavier rainfall and more frequent storms.
“SEPA’s most recent National Flood Risk Assessment (2025) shows that around 400,000 homes, businesses and vital services, around one in eight across Scotland, are currently in areas at medium risk of flooding. This number is projected to rise to around 634,000 by 2100 as the climate continues to change.”
The FRMP consultation builds on work carried out in 2024, when Potentially Vulnerable Areas were reviewed, and consulted on, to identify where highest flood risk is most likely now and in the future.
These areas help focus attention and investment where flooding is most widespread or complex, and where partnership working is essential to reduce impacts.
The current consultation marks the next step in that process, focusing on gathering local insight to ensure future plans reflect lived experience. Running until 22nd April, it asks communities to share their main flooding concerns and highlight projects, initiatives or actions already helping to manage flood risk.
The aim is to help develop Flood Risk Management Plans that support resilient, well-informed communities, recognising the role of individuals, organisations and partnerships alongside national agencies and local authorities in adapting to a changing climate.
Eleanor Cooper, SEPA’s Head of Environment Forecasting and Warning, said: “Flood risk in Scotland is increasing as our climate changes, and many communities are already experiencing the effects. The National Flood Risk Assessment published last year shows why it’s so important to plan ahead and work together to reduce the impacts of flooding.
“This consultation is about listening to communities and learning from local experience. By sharing concerns, experience and knowledge, people can help inform our understanding of flood risk in their area and support the development of flood risk management planning."
The consultation is part of a two-stage process. A second, more detailed consultation will begin from December 2026, when further information on flood risk, objectives and proposed actions will be published in partnership with local authorities. The final Flood Risk Management Plans are due to be published in December 2027.
People can find out more and take part in the consultation Flood Risk Management Phase 1 Consultation
