A FLOOD management project to slow water flow through the Conwy moors is expected to get the go-ahead.

Natural Resources Wales and the National Trust are planning to deliver peat restoration and river restoration initiatives under the Uwch Conwy project which aims assist in the management of water flows through the 574 km2 catchment area.

Plans include the storage of flood waters in the upland by slowing water flows, through the restoration of moors including ditch blocking and river restoration.

MS for Aberconwy, Janet Finch-Saunders welcomed the news that the Welsh Government has given “indicative approval” to the project but said that any work that s carried out must keep any impact on farming communities in mind.

“Linking the local management of the land to new opportunities for our rural communities, in places like Penmachno, should remain absolutely key to any plans to tackle entrenched flood issues," she said.

“I welcome the news that this crucial link will be central to the Uwch Conwy project, which has now been given indicative approval from the Welsh Government. After all, it is only by working in harmony with our rural communities – the custodians of this land for generations – that this project will witness any success.

“Any proposed intervention on uplands management should continue to support farming in North West Wales, whose sustainable methods are proven to work in harmony with nature. It has long been recognised that a one-size-fits-all approach to agricultural policy cannot deal with local issues.

“I will continue to undertake meetings with all stakeholders to ensure that the land management expertise of our local farmers remains central to this project."