New permanent electric pumps are set to be installed on the River Tone near Taunton to help prevent flooding in the Bathpool area. This vital upgrade comes amid plans to boost flood defences following recent severe flooding incidents, including the impact of Storm Chandra.
The Old River Tone flows under the railway near Bathpool, entering the main River Tone at the Hankridge Nature Reserve, close to Taunton’s Odeon cinema and Hollywood Bowl. During heavy rains, an outfall flap closes automatically to prevent excess water discharge, which can cause severe flooding in nearby properties.
Until now, the Environment Agency (EA) has tackled this issue by deploying temporary pumps north of the railway line during high water events, then removing them once the threat subsides. However, thanks to an additional £800,000 in funding secured by the Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA), permanent pumps will soon be installed at the site.
This funding package includes £550,000 from local housing developments, £150,000 allocated by the SRA in March, and a further £100,000 approved recently to accelerate the project. The EA is now preparing a detailed business case to secure central government support, aiming to complete the installation within the next year.
The permanent pumps form part of the larger Taunton strategic flood alleviation scheme, which anticipates £6 million investment in early 2027 for constructing concrete flood walls in two locations along the River Tone within the town centre.
Local community representatives have welcomed the increased funding. Paul Elliston, former West Monkton parish councillor, expressed gratitude to the SRA, highlighting the importance of timely completion to protect homes after significant flooding in January.
The EA emphasized ongoing communication with residents, holding regular meetings to share project updates and timelines. In addition to the Bathpool pump project, the SRA has reallocated funds to support main river maintenance, slowing water flow projects near Frome and Witham Friary, and flood risk investigations in other vulnerable communities.
Ross Edwards from the EA acknowledged Bathpool’s severe recent flooding and the commissioning of a Section 19 report to investigate causes. He reiterated the commitment to install permanent pumps once funding and the business case are fully approved. While a precise timeline is yet to be finalized due to supplier negotiations, the community will be promptly informed as the project progresses.