Taunton is set to benefit from new permanent electric pumps on the River Tone, aimed at preventing flooding near the Bathpool area, where the old river flows under the railway line into the Hankridge Nature Reserve close to the town’s Odeon cinema and Hollywood Bowl.
During high water events, an outfall flap at this location closes automatically to restrict the release of floodwaters from Bathpool, a process that has previously led to extensive property flooding, especially during severe weather such as Storm Chandra. While the Environment Agency (EA) has relied on temporary pumps installed and removed as needed, efforts are now underway to install permanent pumps to provide a more reliable safeguard.
The Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA) has allocated £800,000 to this critical project, supplementing £550,000 already secured from local housing development contributions. This funding boost follows further studies and was approved at recent board meetings held in Yeovil and Bridgwater, including an additional £100,000 towards expediting the project.
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This initiative is a vital component of the broader Taunton strategic flood alleviation improvements scheme, which will see £6 million invested by early 2027 in erecting defensive concrete walls along two sections of the River Tone within the town centre.
Paul Elliston, former West Monkton parish councillor, expressed strong support for the additional funding: “West Monkton Parish Council thanks the board for their ongoing financial backing of the Bathpool pumping improvement project. Following flooding in January, we look forward to sharing detailed progress and updated timelines with residents to mitigate future risks.”
The EA has assured the community that comprehensive project details have already been shared and that regular updates will continue. Beyond the Bathpool pumps, the SRA has dedicated further funds for main river maintenance and other flood risk reduction efforts in the wider Somerset area, including projects to slow water flow in Frome and Witham Friary.
Ross Edwards of the EA highlighted the importance of the project: “Bathpool was one of the worst affected areas in recent flooding. We currently use temporary pumps, but the installation of permanent pumps is a community priority. We are working through the business case and expect to finalize it within the next year. Once timelines are clear, we will communicate them widely.”
These investments and ongoing maintenance efforts underscore a strong commitment to reducing flood risk and protecting Somerset communities from future extreme weather events.