A £1 million coastal defence project is now underway to protect a vital stretch of Minehead’s seafront from ongoing flood risks. For years, Minehead town centre has been vulnerable to coastal flooding, causing damage to homes, businesses, and even forcing the temporary closure of Butlins holiday camp during heavy rains in September 2023.
Last autumn, the Environment Agency (EA) bolstered two critical sections of the shoreline near Minehead and West Somerset Golf Club by installing 14,500 tonnes of granite rock armour to stabilise 360 metres of a vulnerable shingle ridge. Building on that work, contractors are now focusing on reinforcing an additional 100 metres of the same ridge at The Warren, close to Butlins.
This extension involves delivering 5,000 tonnes of rock armour through approximately 250 lorry trips, stretching the protection eastwards to secure 355 local homes and businesses from further erosion and flooding.
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Access to the beach for the project will be made through a temporary opening in the rock groyne, with all construction scheduled around suitable tidal conditions and conducted in an environmentally sensitive manner.
Bert Leach, a representative from the EA, stated: “This project builds on our 2023 efforts and will provide essential flood defence for Minehead. We are addressing erosion at the eastern end of the current defences to safeguard the community. While we recognise that roadworks and heavy vehicle movements can cause inconvenience, we are committed to minimising disruptions and appreciate the community’s patience.”
The EA aims to complete the works before summer, reducing impact on the town’s busy tourist season. Completion of the project will also allow the reopening of the West Somerset Coast Path between Minehead and Dunster, reconnecting with the Steam Coast Trail towards Blue Anchor.
Ben Parker, clerk of Minehead Town Council, commented, “We welcome this vital investment in our coastal defences. Protecting Minehead from flooding is crucial for our residents, businesses, and future. The success of the 2023 scheme gives us confidence, and it is encouraging to see the Environment Agency swiftly extend these protections. This is positive news for our community.”