A cherished medieval bridge in Somerset is set to benefit from a £150,000 flood prevention initiative aimed at preserving its structure and protecting surrounding communities. The River Barle, flowing from its source at Pinkery Reservoir across Exmoor, passes through Simonsbath, Withypool, and Dulverton before merging with the River Exe near Exebridge.
Among its landmarks is the Tarr Steps, a 55-metre medieval clapper bridge and Grade I listed scheduled monument, which has become a popular destination for walkers and tourists. Unfortunately, repeated flooding has necessitated rebuilding the bridge four times within the past 13 years.
In response, the Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA) and Exmoor National Park Authority (ENPA) are collaborating on the Upper Barle restoration project. This plans to restore 850 metres of the river’s course to its natural floodplain, encompassing a 3.5-hectare area that will slow water flow and alleviate flood risks. By reversing 19th-century river straightening, this effort aims to protect Tarr Steps and reduce flooding incidents in Dulverton and downstream settlements.
READ MORE: Glastonbury 2025 Features Four of the UK’s Top Live Performers
READ MORE: Bath Rugby Player Ratings: Shining Performances Propel Bears to Premiership Final
The project, part of the SRA’s enhanced 2025/26 programme, includes new tree planting across the Barle Valley to further mitigate flood risks. With a total cost estimated at £149,000, £105,000 has been allocated for design and development stages, including vital ecological assessments to safeguard local wildlife.
Alex Farris, ENPA’s natural environment manager, highlighted that additional funding from the government’s water restoration fund has been secured to support the development phase, allowing SRA funds to focus on implementation. Consultants are presently engaged in technical planning, with detailed designs and planning consent expected by the end of the financial year.
Dulverton and Brushford have faced 14 flood events since 1980, largely from River Barle overflow during heavy rains. The Tarr Steps bridge itself was rebuilt following floods in 2012, 2016, 2017, and 2023. In response, the ENPA introduced the Great Bradley Bridge in summer 2024 to provide an additional crossing.
Another nearby bridge, Hinds Pitt Bridge, was closed in May due to structural concerns, with efforts underway to secure funding for its replacement.
Farris also noted ecological benefits of slowing the river flow, including potential improvements to riverfly populations and habitats for species like salmon, grayling, dippers, and the prospect of reintroducing water voles into the Upper Barle catchment.
The restoration work is anticipated to be mostly completed by autumn 2026, with preliminary tree planting scheduled beforehand to minimize disturbance to wildlife and ensure improvements are in place ahead of winter rains.