Work began yesterday across the north-east to clean up the damage caused by this week’s severe weather.
The area was hit by flash flooding throughout the morning and afternoon of Wednesday.
Yesterday, 19 residents returned to a seafront sheltered housing complex in Stonehaven after being evacuated from their homes amid fears for their safety.
Police and councils in the north east have been praised for their quick response in the face of this week’s atrocious weather conditions but have been urged to continue to improve flood prevention work.
Greig Wallace, chairman of Stonehaven Flood Action Group, says both the council and police deserve credit for how they reacted to the flooding.
But said that was little consolation for residents whose homes had been damaged: “This has had a massive effect on people that have had to leave their homes.
“I was knee-deep in water and mud this morning trying to clear some of the debris.
“The council managed to get the people evacuated from Turner’s Court and the police were on the ground to ensure that happened.
“However, there has to be beach management measures taken, shingle has to be removed from the seawall to allow it to do its job.”
The last time the town experienced such adverse conditions was in November, 2012.
Dozens of residents were forced to leave their homes for up to six months because of the damage.
David and Joan Williamson were among the worst affected by the flooding in 2012.
The pair were forced to shut the doors of the Bayview bed and breakfast after it was damaged by flood water.
Since then, the couple have reopened the bed and breakfast on Beachgate Lane, complete with the Big Moon Coffee House on the bottom floor.
Mr Williamson says thankfully the flood precautions they put in place were effective.
He said: “There was a bit of an ‘oh my goodness, it’s happening again’ moment if I’m honest.
“But I think people are much better protected this time round.”
Philip McKay, head of roads and landscape services for the council, says shingle management is “routinely” carried out in the area.
Mr McKay added: “Officers are currently considering the results of a study undertaken by JBA Consulting for Aberdeenshire Council.
“This study will help inform the future management of coastal zone in Stonehaven, including mitigating the effects of coastal flooding.”
