By way of conclusion, the following problems have been identified:

1. Increased urbanisation on traditional floodplains.
2. Access to the town becomes impossible. During times of flooding with particular reference to this year, the town was cut off to the south, with all three bridges, the Presentation, Old Bridge and the Gashouse Bridge impassable.
3. Closure of schools.
4. Financial loss to local business’s and residents alike.
5. Devastation caused to acres of farmland with loss of crops.
6. Cost to Local Authority.
7. Lack of sandbags and slow rescue services.
8. Severe traumatic stress inflicted on the elderly, the young and the infirm.
9. Depreciation of dwellings, soaring insurance costs and minimal compensation packages.