Three years ago floods devastated St Asaph - now £3million will be spent to prevent it happening again

Credit: Dave Thompson / PA Wire / Press Association Images

Millions of pounds will be spent on improving Wales's flood defences over the next year, including £3million in a north Wales city hit by floods three years ago.

A total of £6million will be invested in flood protection works across the country in the 2016/17 financial year. Hundreds of people were left homeless in St Asaph and surrounding area when the River Elwy burst its banks in 2012.

Natural Resources Minister Carl Sargeant AM says £3million will be invested in the city on a scheme, which when it is completed, will reduce the risk of the River Elwy breaking its banks again. More than 400 properties are expected to benefit from the works which will include improvements to St Asaph old bridge, access and recreational improvements to the foot and cycle-paths, biodiversity enhancements and the restoration of a small stream.

Hundreds of people were forced to leave their homes after floods hit St Asaph in 2012. Credit: Dave Thompson/PA Archive/PA Images

The other £3million will be used for the Coastal Risk Management Programme to help pay for preparatory work needed for other coastal risk and adaptation schemes.