The Welsh Government has released £1.2 million in funding to help councils and Natural Resources Wales (NRW) prepare for flood risk during the winter period.

Up to £880,000 will be given to local authorities, while £300,000 will be used by NRW for flood defences inspection and maintenance work.

All 22 councils can apply for up to £40,000 each to carry out the following work;

• Essential maintenance works to flood risk management assets, which reduce risk of flooding to properties, to ensure they remain resilient ahead of winter.

• Mapping and collation of asset data.

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• Asset surveying to establish location, condition, cost of repairs, lifespan of assets.

NRW's £300,000 fund will enable them to carry out the following;

• management of vegetation and trees on flood embankments

• channel management works (removal of, silt and weed),

• clearing obstructions from rivers and trash screens,

• Purchase additional kit and tools to further assist maintenance and resilience work,

• Carry out additional contingency exercises to ensure resilience and preparedness for any severe weather incidents.

Cabinet Secretary Lesley Griffiths said: "I am pleased to be able to provide this vital funding to support asset inspection and maintenance of our flood defences prior to winter. Asset inspection and maintenance is a vital part of the work Risk Management Authorities carry out to ensure our assets continue to function effectively in severe weather conditions.

"This funding is provided to help local authorities and Natural Resources Wales carry out this important work, reducing the risk of flooding to our communities."

(LM)