Travellers’ camp could delay multi-million pound flood works in Brechin - Angus

From the Courier

A Traveller camp in Angus could stall progress on multi-million pound flood prevention works, it has been warned.

The camp has been set up in Brechin on the grounds of the Victorian gasworks off Witchden Road. At least five caravans are in place on the private land, which was recently auctioned off for redevelopment.

However, community council member Derek Harper said the site may impede civic works.

“The land these people are occupying is absolutely pivotal to the flooding scheme the council has in store for Brechin,” he said.

“The old gas works is the only access point for a burn that runs under the entire town, and it will be extremely important in the works that will come to pass.”

The proposed scheme, which was recently approved by the Scottish Government, is set to provide the Angus town with “a modern flood prevention scheme” that will better protect Brechin’s homes and businesses.

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency has in the past singled out the site as being “contaminated” by years of exposure to harmful gases.