The Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA) has announced that much-needed improvements to a major Somerset river are now delayed for at least another year. The SRA, established in 2015 following the devastating floods of 2013/14, has worked to implement additional flood prevention schemes for the River Parrett and River Tone catchment areas.
While the authority has successfully overseen numerous improvements in various areas, the River Brue has posed persistent challenges. Issues surrounding funding and consensus on improvement schemes have led to significant delays, with £279,000 left unspent in July 2021 due to disagreements over the details of an improvement plan.
In early-February 2024, the SRA board completed detailed modeling of the river, identifying a dozen potential improvement schemes for different areas of the river catchment. However, the SRA has cautioned that further studies are necessary before any groundwork can commence, pushing the tangible benefits for residents to at least the 2026/27 financial year.
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The River Brue, originating in Brewham near Bruton and flowing across the Somerset Levels, is the focal point for the proposed improvement schemes. The Somerset Drainage Board Consortium (SDBC), in collaboration with consultancy firm WSP, has compiled a list of 12 schemes for potential river enhancements, which will undergo further investigation.
Sean Papworth, lead officer for resilience and adaptation at Somerset Council, has confirmed that additional modeling work will be completed by August, with priority given to the first six schemes. This information will be presented for inclusion in the SRA’s 2026/27 enhanced program.
The delays have prompted criticism from local figures, including Bill Smart from Wedmore Parish Council, who expressed disappointment in the lack of progress and urgency surrounding the River Brue proposals. Additionally, concerns have been raised over the complexity of the improvement projects and their potential impact on flooding risks.
SRA advisor John Rowlands emphasized the challenges of implementing changes in the region, highlighting the importance of understanding the potential consequences of any actions before proceeding with the proposed improvements.