The funding, which was announced last week as part of the Wales Infrastructure Investment Plan, was welcomed by the Welsh environment minister John Griffiths, who said that the investment will add to Wales’ existing Environment and Sustainable Development portfolio.

It is also anticipated to help drive economic growth and create new jobs.

As part of the investment, flood and coastal risk management schemes in Colwyn Bay, Talgarth, Gilfach and Borth are set to benefit from £4m of funding, while Wales’ fuel poverty scheme Nest will receive £3m.

A further £2m will be invested in a Wales’ strategic energy scheme to help maximise the schemes benefits.

Mr Griffiths said: “This £9m for Environment and Sustainable Development is great news for Wales.

“The £4m for flood and coastal risk management will help to protect nearly 800 homes and businesses in Colwyn Bay, Talgarth, Gilfach and Borth from flood damage. Not only that but it will help to create and secure local job opportunities within the construction industry.

“I am also delighted that we were allocated £5m from the Wales Infrastructure Investment Plan to help tackle fuel poverty. This includes £3m for our fuel poverty scheme, Nest which will help to reduce the fuel bills of around 600 householders across Wales through measures such as tariff checks, insulation and installation of energy efficient boilers. ”

Carys Matthews

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