A £10 million flood defence scheme across the Somerset Levels is approaching completion, marking the final phase of a decade-long initiative to reduce flood risks for local communities. Led by the Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA) in partnership with the Parrett Internal Drainage Board (IDB), this critical project strengthens 1.22 miles (1.96 km) of the left bank of King’s Sedgemoor Drain (KSD).
The enhancement increases the overall capacity of the River Sowy–KSD system by nearly 25%, significantly improving floodwater management during heavy rainfall events. Mike Stanton, chair of the SRA and Somerset Councillor, emphasized that these efforts culminate a major ten-year programme. “These works ensure the King’s Sedgemoor Drain banks are fit for purpose, safely conveying greater volumes of water towards the Bristol Channel,” he said.
The flood relief system activates when the River Parrett reaches capacity, diverting excess water through the River Sowy flood relief channel (constructed between 1969 and 1972) into the KSD. This network prevents flooding of farmland, homes, and roads in vulnerable areas such as Moorland, Northmoor Green, Muchelney, and Thorney.
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Stanton highlighted recent community-focused improvements, including a new causeway at Muchelney to replace one of the valley’s historic flood points and larger culverts at Beer Wall to facilitate better water flow from higher ground. The project underscores progress made since the devastating floods of 2013–14, which affected nearly 200 homes and caused extensive damage estimated at £150 million.
Established after the 2014 floods, the Somerset Rivers Authority raises around £2.8 million annually to fund high-priority flood risk management projects countywide. Tony Bradford, Chair of the Parrett IDB and Vice-Chair of the SRA, described the current KSD works as “immense” and vital in keeping floodwaters contained within the drainage banks rather than spreading across populated areas.
Bradford highlighted the unique tidal challenge at Dunball sluice gates, where water evacuation is limited by incoming tides, necessitating raised banks to hold floodwaters safely. While recognizing these improvements, he pointed toward future ambitions, such as installing a pumping station at Dunball for continuous water discharge and addressing flood concerns in the River Brue catchment.
John Rowlands from Calm Engineering, responsible for delivering the works, praised the blend of traditional engineering wisdom with modern techniques. Raising the banks increases storage capacity, helping control floodwaters over the flat Somerset Levels and Moors. The project is expected to reduce flooding risk across approximately 150 square kilometers by enabling more efficient gravity drainage and less dependence on costly pumping infrastructure.
Overall, the upgraded Sowy-KSD system now handles an additional 354,000 cubic metres of water per day — a 24.2% capacity increase — complementing over £30 million in related enhancements since 2014, such as dredging and bridge improvements. This vital investment promises greater protection for Somerset’s landscapes and communities well into the future.