The Environment Agency (EA) has announced a formal review of its response to the recent flooding in Somerset, following a ministerial visit to the region.
Sarah Dyke, Liberal Democrat MP for Glastonbury and Somerton, accompanied Flooding Minister Emma Hardy to Langport to witness the ongoing effects of Storm Chandra and persistent wet weather that have severely affected Somerset in recent weeks.
During a House of Commons debate, Ms. Dyke commended the dedicated efforts of local agencies and volunteers who responded to the crisis. However, she urged the government to increase funding to prevent future major flooding events.
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Minister Hardy disclosed that the EA has committed to reviewing its flood response “trigger points,” including the potential installation of permanent pumps at strategic locations to better manage water levels.
Ms. Dyke shared the distress of those repeatedly impacted by floods, highlighting a sense of “permanent anxiety” among residents. She recounted the story of Louise, who runs the GingerFred dance studio in Langport. For two weeks, Louise battled floodwaters threatening her business’s doorstep but remains determined to continue despite the challenges.
On a tour of Langport and nearby villages including Drayton and Thorney, Ms. Dyke and Minister Hardy spoke with local farmer Mike Curtis, who showed them his extensively flooded farmland from his tractor.
Communities that routinely face flooding show remarkable resilience but deserve robust investment and timely action. “Flood resilience in Somerset cannot be managed on a shoestring budget,” Ms. Dyke stated, emphasizing the urgent need for better support.
Gideon Amos, MP for Taunton and Wellington, echoed concerns about communication from the EA, saying residents often feel inadequately informed about pumping schedules and long-term flood management plans, particularly on the Levels.
Ms. Dyke agreed, stressing the need for a more collaborative approach with local authorities and better real-time flooding information for communities. She pointed to the successful example in the River Cam catchment, where bridges equipped with flood monitors and a tracking app enable residents to monitor water levels actively—a system she hopes to see implemented in Somerset.
The MP called on the government to increase investment in Somerset’s flood defenses, warning that national flood budgets have been cut in real terms, despite evidence showing every £1 spent prevents £5 in damage.
Concerns were also raised about the EA’s recent withdrawal from maintaining main rivers due to funding shortages, a decision seen as leaving vulnerable communities exposed.
Minister Hardy acknowledged the cycle of anxiety and disruption caused by repeated flooding in Somerset and extended condolences to affected individuals, families, and businesses. She praised the extraordinary dedication of first responders, EA staff, emergency services, and volunteers working under challenging conditions.
Describing her visit as “invaluable,” Minister Hardy confirmed that the EA will review water level management issues once the current incident concludes. This review will include evaluating the timing for activating pumps, suitability of current trigger points, and the feasibility of permanent pumping stations.
The government has pledged to invest at least £10.5 billion by 2036 in new flood and coastal defense projects, alongside £300 million dedicated to natural flood management initiatives such as leaky dams and extensive tree planting to slow surface water runoff.
Minister Hardy emphasized the importance of prioritizing funding toward measures that deliver maximum benefits, protect property, reduce flood risks, and represent value for money. She highlighted the vital role of the EA in balancing water management in Somerset to support agriculture, protect homes, and preserve the region’s ecology.
Recognizing the profound impact flooding has on mental health, financial stability, and community cohesion, the minister stressed the need for a compassionate, coordinated, and long-term response.