SRA Annual Report 2019-20: Trial of water injection dredging techniques between Northmoor and the M5

Following a successful trial of water injection dredging techniques along a short stretch of the River Parrett on the northern edge of the village of Moorland (see below), plans are being made to increase the capacity of the River Parrett between Northmoor and the M5.

Some matters need to be refined and carefully assessed, because there is a potential flipside to creating more space in this section of the Parrett. More flood water could get down to the sea – but silt-laden tidal flows from the sea could also get up into higher reaches of the river.

The target date for action is early 2021.

Progress has been hampered by coronavirus pandemic restrictions, but the SRA’s determination is to continue to reduce local flood risks.

The works proposed would complement numerous activities carried out since the floods of 2013-14, including pioneer dredging in 2014 and 2016, maintenance dredging in 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and January 2020, and regular silt monitoring.

The project is being managed for the SRA by the Parrett IDB, working closely with the Environment Agency.

Somerset Rivers Authority is using Growth Deal funding from the Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership.