Property owners have welcomed news that Government intends to address long-standing flooding problems in Pembroke.

The Ministry of Public Works has set aside $200,000 for the cleaning and maintenance of Pembroke Canal as well as upgrades to a grate and valve which will reduce the occurrence of floods on Mill Creek Road and other flood-prone areas.

A spokesman for affected business owners said: “Building owners on Mill Creek are proactively in contact and working with the Government to resolve the flooding issue which has caused some severe disruption to the public and to the workers in the area.

“We are pleased to hear that Government has committed funds to the creek and associated infrastructure as this is clearly the responsibility of the Government.”

The former Ministry of Works and Engineering began a canal and road improvement scheme at Woodlands Road in 2009.

In 2010, government rebuilt and upgraded the sluice gate at the entrance to Mills Creek to control water flow.

Further work took place in September 2011 to improve drainage and reduce the risk of flooding in Mills Creeks.

Workmen also cut back and removed section of mangroves at the mouth of the canal where it joins the creek.

The spokesman added: “With respect to the road and vegetation maintenance, the property owners have created a task force and are looking at solutions which fall under their responsibility.

“We are hopeful that Government and the private sector will work in collaboration to look after in their respective areas of responsibility to address this issue successfully.”