1. Will the Minister make a statement on investment in flood defences in Clwyd West? OQ56764

This financial year, we are investing £3.55 million in flood and coastal projects in Clwyd West. This includes schemes at different stages of development, from business case through to construction. An interactive map showing all our investment this year through the flood and coastal programme is published on our website.

Thank you for that response, Minister. And can I be the first to thank the Welsh Government for the new programme of works that it's hoping to initiate in the Towyn, Kinmel Bay and Llanddulas areas in my constituency, which have been at risk of flooding for many years, and, of course, which were the scene in 1990 of the most devastating floods in living memory across Wales? One of the concerns in terms of the schemes that may now be taken forward in that coastal belt is the visual impact of any changes to the flood defences. You'll be aware that tourism is very important to the local economy in this particular part of my constituency. So, I wonder what work the Welsh Government will allow to be done to make sure that the improved flood defences also actually improve the amenity for local residents along the promenade and are attractive to residents and visitors alike.

Thank you for that very important point actually, Darren Millar. Because this is about more than flood defence; these are often some of the most beautiful parts of our coastlines and river edges, and so on. So, I completely agree that it also has to enhance the local environment. You'll be very well aware that, under 'Planning Policy Wales', we talk constantly and consistently about the need for sustainable communities. And that of course includes the visual amenity of tourist areas, or actually just all areas, because the residents who live there must be able to live, thrive and be happy there, as well as be protected from floods. So, I completely agree that that's a very important part of the work that we must do, to make sure that, whilst the flood defences protect against floods, they also fit very well into the natural landscape.