Thousands of homes across Somerset will benefit from enhanced flood protection following the completion of major upgrades to three critical reservoirs on the Somerset Levels and Moors. These improvements, initiated in 2022 by the Environment Agency (EA), are part of a comprehensive £90 million investment programme aimed at safeguarding vulnerable low-lying communities from flooding.
The significant refurbishment works at Curry Moor, Southlake Moor, and West Moor reservoirs have strengthened the region’s flood defenses by improving the reservoirs’ capacity to store and manage excess water during heavy rainfall. These reservoirs form part of an interconnected system designed to hold back millions of cubic metres of floodwater, which can then be safely released through existing waterways into the Bristol Channel.
Strategically located near Stoke St. Gregory, Burrowbridge, and Thorney, respectively, these reservoirs play a vital role in protecting not only thousands of residents and farmers but also important local businesses and key transport links, including the A361 between Taunton and Glastonbury.
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While the main upgrade work is now complete, the final touches are scheduled for completion by autumn 2026, weather permitting.
The Somerset Levels and Moors face unique flood risks due to approximately 18% of the area lying below average tide level. Enhancing the flood storage capacity in this region is critical to mitigating these hazards.
Among the notable upgrades, West Moor reservoir has seen the installation of new spillways and connecting pipes, enabling it to store up to 8.5 million cubic metres of water—the equivalent of 3,400 Olympic-sized swimming pools. Similarly, Curry Moor reservoir now features a new debris screen and reinforced embankments, while Southlake Moor reservoir has strengthened riverbanks and a new spillway to better manage floodwaters.
The project was executed in partnership with contractor Kier and funded through a £5.2 billion government scheme aimed at protecting hundreds of thousands of UK properties from flooding and coastal erosion by 2027.
EA Wessex Area Director Ian Withers emphasized the importance of these investments: “This £90 million programme demonstrates our commitment to building flood resilience for Somerset’s unique landscape. Strengthening these reservoirs ensures homes, businesses, and communities are better protected now and in the future.”
Environmental considerations were also integral to the project. Careful measures preserved wildlife habitats and archaeological sites, showcasing a balance between effective flood defence and environmental stewardship.
According to Jason Flagg, the EA catchment engineer for the region, “The complex engineering solutions we delivered will make a significant difference when flood risk is highest. These reservoirs are now fortified to serve Somerset’s communities for many decades to come.”