Comhairle nan Eilean Siar has approved the development of a flood risk
management scheme for the South Ford area of South Uist.
The ford stretches over the tidal sands between south Benbecula and the north end of south Uist.
There is no a definite indication of funding levels though the council hopes for a slice of the £42 million a year the Scottish Government allocates for flood protection measures in Scotland.
A number of ideas have been identified for South Ford.
The most expensive option is installing a bridge over a 250 metre section of the causeway.
Other less costly options include beach recharge, sand dune restoration, machair restoration as well as building of embankments, and the removal of hydraulic constrictions.
Engineering consultants Royal Haskoning DHV, hired by the council, have looked at the management of the Lionacleit dunes as well as the possible benefits of reinforcing the central section of Gualan Island.
They also examined the associated change at the south of Gualan Island, and potential implications for drainage to Loch Bi.
A public meeting over the issues is to be held at a later date.
Flood risk scheme being drawn up
16 December 2014