Somerset’s internal drainage boards are intensifying efforts to persuade the Environment Agency (EA) to install more permanent pumps across the Somerset Levels. This push comes in response to the severe flooding experienced during this winter, notably from Storm Chandra, which has left the area grappling with ongoing damage.
The region continues to recover, with key roads such as the one between Langport and Muchelney still closed due to flooding. Meanwhile, Somerset Council’s highways teams are tirelessly repairing the numerous potholes and road defects caused by the storms.
The Flooding on the Levels Action Group (FLAG) is a vocal advocate for the installation of permanent pumping stations. They argue that relying on temporary pumps, brought in only after flooding begins, delays the crucial task of moving floodwater downstream. Permanent installations would enable faster response times and better flood management.
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Responding to these calls, the Environment Agency confirmed it is reviewing the potential for permanent pumps at 11 sites on the Levels. However, it highlighted significant economic obstacles. Challenges like the standing electricity charges and operational costs create barriers to immediate implementation.
FLAG representative Bryony Sadler raised concerns at the recent Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA) board meeting in Yeovil. Sadler criticized the dismissal of plans for a permanent station at Northmoor and pointed out issues such as National Grid’s requirement for upfront payments for operating pumps. She urged that local knowledge—gained through years of firsthand experience managing the system—be better integrated into any decision-making processes.
“Involving local experts could provide critical insights and help avoid prematurely discounting viable solutions,” Sadler emphasized. She also suggested exploring alternative power sources, including hydroelectric or solar options, and the pursuit of new funding avenues beyond relying on National Grid arrangements.
EA representative Ross Edwards acknowledged the concerns and confirmed that “trigger points” for deploying additional pumping capacity are under ongoing review in light of the flooding impacts from Storm Chandra. He reiterated the agency’s analysis of 11 pumping stations regarding the feasibility of permanent versus temporary installations.
Edwards explained the economic difficulties, including the high fixed costs of electricity during inactivity periods, making permanent pumps financially challenging. He added that renewable energy options, though successful for lighter summer irrigation duties, currently cannot meet the high-volume winter pumping demands necessary on the Levels.
The EA currently manages 21 pumping stations throughout Somerset, all subject to regular maintenance to ensure readiness during flood events. Four key stations—Huish Episcopi, Midelney, Northmoor, and Westover—are slated for upgrades with new flood defense equipment, supported by a £6 million investment.
Iain Study of the Somerset Drainage Board Consortium stressed the importance of permanent pumps for improved flood resilience. Reflecting on the winter floods, he noted that approximately 180 properties were protected thanks to swift floodwater management measures. Study underscored that prompt pumping capacity saves critical volume to handle successive rainfall events.
He asserted, “Delays in mobilizing pumps cost time and increase risks. Having permanent pumps ready to operate at the press of a button, without weeks of installation, is vital. We will continue to lobby vigorously for permanent pumping solutions where they can make a difference.”
As Somerset plans for future flood defenses, the debate continues over balancing economic realities with community safety and environmental resilience.