North Somerset Council is facing unexpected financial pressure following the transfer of river maintenance duties previously handled by the Environment Agency. This shift places a significant burden on the already stretched council, which must now maintain several rivers running through its land, critical for flood prevention in the low-lying Somerset area.
Historically, the Environment Agency managed river upkeep, focusing on flood risk reduction. However, due to budget cuts announced in August, the agency has reduced or ceased maintenance work, transferring responsibility to landowners adjacent to watercourses—known as riparian owners. This move has raised alarm across Somerset, sparking calls for parliamentary debate.
The council is now tasked with maintenance obligations because some waterways run through council-owned land. A recent report to a council scrutiny panel emphasizes that North Somerset Council faces an “additional burden” with no dedicated budget or internal resources allocated for this new role. Furthermore, the Environment Agency has not provided funds to support the council’s work, and the current spending levels on river maintenance in North Somerset are unclear.
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This responsibility intensifies existing financial challenges for the council, which is already grappling with demands such as increasing social care costs and plans to close multiple libraries. Without government aid, the council has indicated it may struggle to balance its budget next year.
The report warns that any allocation of funds to river maintenance could force cuts to other important services. In September, Councillor Peter Burden criticized the Environment Agency for not consulting the council before withdrawing. He highlighted that many local residents may be unaware of their responsibilities as riparian owners, particularly in areas like Clevedon, where rivers run through private gardens.
While the Environment Agency will continue to maintain the Land Yeo river through Clevedon for this year, the council has formally expressed concern and urged the agency to reinstate comprehensive river maintenance across Somerset. Although the Environment Agency is not legally required to carry out these works, it has historically done so to prioritize flood safety in vulnerable areas.
As this funding gap emerges, North Somerset Council’s ability to manage flood risks effectively faces increasing uncertainty, highlighting the need for clearer support and funding solutions.