A significant £10 million flood defence initiative on the Somerset Levels is approaching completion, marking the final phase of a decade-long programme devoted to reducing flood risk across the county. This project, led by the Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA) in partnership with the Parrett Internal Drainage Board (IDB), involves raising 1.22 miles (1.96 km) of the left bank of King’s Sedgemoor Drain (KSD).
Together with previous improvements, this enhancement increases the capacity of the River Sowy–KSD system by nearly 25%, enabling it to better manage high volumes of floodwater during heavy rainfall. Mike Stanton, SRA Chair and Somerset Councillor, described the works as pivotal. “These raised banks make the King’s Sedgemoor Drain fit for purpose, allowing more water to pass safely through the system and out to the Bristol Channel,” he said.
The Sowy-KSD system plays a crucial role when the River Parrett reaches full capacity, diverting excess water through the flood relief channel constructed between 1969 and 1972. This channel links to the KSD, helping to prevent flooding of farmland, homes, and roads in vulnerable low-lying areas such as Moorland, Northmoor Green, Muchelney, and Thorney.
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Since the devastating floods of 2013–14—which affected nearly 200 homes and caused approximately £150 million in damage—significant improvements have been made. These include a new causeway to prevent isolation of Muchelney and larger culverts at Beer Wall to better manage water flow. The SRA was formed in 2015 in response to these floods and now raises about £2.8 million yearly for flood risk management projects.
Tony Bradford, Chair of the Parrett IDB, emphasizes how the project builds community confidence. “After the severe floods, residents became very anxious when it rained heavily. This work sends a clear message that measures are in place to protect their homes,” he explained. He also highlighted geographic challenges posed by tidal influences at the Dunball sluice gates, which periodically restrict water evacuation.
While the system’s enhancements greatly reduce flood risk, limitations remain. Bradford noted a wish for a pumping station at Dunball to allow continuous water discharge regardless of tide conditions. Future efforts will also address other catchments, such as the River Brue, where unmet flood protection needs exist.
From a technical standpoint, John Rowlands of Calm Engineering praised the project’s modern upgrades. “Though past engineers understood this landscape, we’ve incorporated contemporary techniques to increase storage within the banks, reducing flood duration and extent over 150 square kilometres of the Levels and Moors,” he said.
The Sowy-KSD system’s capacity now handles an additional 354,000 cubic metres of water per day—a 24.2% increase—complementing over £30 million in related improvements carried out since 2014, including dredging and infrastructure upgrades. Together, these efforts form a robust defence, better equipping Somerset communities to face future flood events.