| In accordance with Section 19 of the Flood and Water Management Act 2010, in its role as Lead Local Flood Authority, Monmouthshire County Council has completed an investigation into the flooding from the River Monnow during Storm Claudia in November 2025. The resulting ‘Section 19 Flood Report’ details the causes and impacts of the severe flooding that affected communities across the catchment. It sets out a series of recommendations aimed at improving flood resilience, strengthening community preparedness and increasing understanding of flood risk in affected areas. Storm Claudia had a significant impact on local communities, with homes, businesses and public spaces affected by flooding and disruption. In the days and weeks that followed, residents, community groups, volunteers and local organisations showed remarkable resilience, coming together to support one another, share information and help those most affected begin to recover. The recommendations include further assessment of flood mitigation options, improvements to flood warning systems and arrangements, enhanced community flood planning and measures to help properties and communities become more resilient to future flooding. Council Leader, Cllr Mary Ann Brocklesby, said: “The publication of this report is an important step in understanding the unprecedented flooding experienced by communities across the Monnow catchment during Storm Claudia. “While no single organisation can address these challenges alone, I am pleased that the council and Natural Resources Wales will continue to work together to explore how they can be delivered. “Our priority remains supporting residents and businesses affected by flooding, while taking every opportunity to improve preparedness and resilience for the future. We are committed to working closely with local communities and partner organisations as this work progresses.” Monmouthshire County Council and Natural Resources Wales will continue to work with affected communities and stakeholders as the recommendations are developed into practical next steps. Info: https://www.monmouthshire.gov.uk/flood-investigation-reports/ |