The Environment Agency and Sedgemoor District Council have met to discuss proposals for a new flood prevention barrier on the River Parrett, near Burnham-On-Sea.
The planned structure, pictured, is one of several actions that have been proposed to reduce the risk of more Somerset flooding in the future as part of Somerset’s Flood Action Plan.
A tidal surge barrier – which would operate to exclude the highest tides and provide protection from storms – is believed to provide the best long term flood protection.
A spokesman for Sedgemoor District Council told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “The technical review provides up to date evidence and analysis of flood risk and infrastructure options.”
“The work funded so far by the Environment Agency and Sedgemoor District Council, is very important.”
“We are working closely with the Environment Agency to accelerate the delivery of a barrier and improve flood protection for local homes and businesses.”
The council added that the review is part of an ongoing process, pointing out that no final decisions have been made about the style, design or exact location of the barrier which will be the subject of future decisions.
The review has drawn upon experience from flooding in 2014 and 2013, as well as information gathered from The Environment Agency, Sedgemoor District Council and the Internal Drainage Boards.
The plans come one week after separate proposals were put forward for a power-generating tidal lagoon in Bridgwater Bay.
