Vale of Clwyd MP Dr James Davies is encouraging residents to sign his Rhyl Cut and Prestatyn Gutter petition before it is submitted to Parliament.
James started the petition following longstanding concerns over the state of the watercourse, which runs through both towns, and is keen to collect as many signatures as possible before presenting it in the House of Commons.
Maintenance of the cut/gutter has always been an issue and James believes a solution needs to be found whereby it is adequately maintained by the state.
He said:
“Unfortunately, in legal terms, riparian ownership of the Rhyl Cut and Prestatyn Gutter applies, which means that it is the landowners on each side of the watercourse who are responsible for its maintenance.
“This is clearly not realistic and I believe a solution needs to be found whereby it is adequately maintained by the state.
“Currently, limited maintenance is being carried out once a year by Natural Resources Wales (NRW), whose role is to maintain the land only so as to limit flood risk. Denbighshire County Council (DCC) has taken on the responsibility for litter located on the banks in certain areas.
“The general view, I believe, is that these combined efforts are insufficient. I am aware that residents can be plagued by rats, flies, stagnant water and fly tipping, and I am keen to do all within my power to raise the profile of the issue.
“I have been in touch with both NRW and DCC to try and bring about a suitable maintenance regime but neither organisation feels able to take this on.
“I feel that the only way in which we may be able to bring about the required change is to raise concerns in Parliament and I will be presenting my petition in the House of Commons to highlight the strength of feeling locally.”
James has sent letters with details of the petition to all residents living close to the watercourse and is encouraging any other concerned residents in Rhyl and Prestatyn to also sign it.
He added:
“The Rhyl Cut and Prestatyn Gutter has been a cause for concern for many years now and I am hopeful that presenting this petition in the House of Commons will encourage key decision makers within Welsh Government and regionally to take the necessary action and commit to a more regular maintenance schedule for the entire length of the Cut and Gutter.”
James’s petition can be signed on his website; https://www.jamesdavies.org.uk/campaigns/rhyl-cut-prestatyn-gutter-petition, whilst original paper copies can be sent free of charge through Royal Mail. These can be obtained by telephoning 01745 888920.
