Councillor David Alston told the Ross-shire Journal, "Each spring and autumn we see high tides and if these are combined with high rainfall — one of the consequences of climate change — it makes it a more frequent occurrence.

"The Scottish Environment Protection Agency's website provides flood maps which identify the risks. On the Black Isle, Avoch is particularly vulnerable and residents of The Dock are well aware of the potential combination of a very high tide and the burn in spate.

"It is important to work out now what has to be done. We need accurate, expert studies to identify the most effective prevention measures and we need to carry out this work as quickly as possible. If this is not done, not only is there a risk of flooding but there is the potential that insurance companies — who also look at the SEPA flood maps — will be unwilling to provide cover in the 'at risk' areas."

Councillor Alston added, "There are other problems ahead. High tides and strong winds — another increasingly frequent combination — create the threat of coastal flooding. The Fishertown in Cromarty is vulnerable, as residents well know.

Councillor David Alston at the mouth of the Avoch burn, an area highlighted by SEPA to be in danger of flooding.

"Flooding is a devastating experience for householders and I find it most disappointing that, with these clearly identified problems."

Councillor Alston claims the administration has cut back on both its flood alleviation and coastal protection budgets.

He said, "I hope that public pressure can bring about a change of heart and that we can see sensible planning and allocation of funds to address these issues."

However, Councillor John Finnie, SNP group leader, said, "Anyone who examines our programme will know the importance we place on climate change. As councillor for Inverness Ness-side I know all about the dangers of flooding in my own ward. We have plans in place to deal with the effects of flooding and have no plans to change our policy."

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