In March 2020, the SRA Board approved funding for a package offlood risk reduction works in Rode near Frome. This project came out of an earlier SRA-funded programme of investigations into sub-catchments across Mendip that would benefit from Enhanced Maintenance.

A first burst of activities in 2020-21 included extensive surveys of the drainage network, including jetting of the system to remove blockages, sediment and built- up limescale from culverts. Partnership working meant that while roads were closed for this work, five manhole covers were replaced by Wessex Water, four on the High Street and one at the bottom of Church Street.

The parish council wrote to thank Mendip’s Flood Risk Consultants Calm Engineering and contractors Dando: “The work itself was very well organised, with excellent communication to residents, and frequent, helpful updates.”

The full project is expected to reduce flood risks to more than 25 properties and nine roads in Rode. It will also enhance parts of the local environment, through techniques of natural flood management, with the potential to provide outdoor educational opportunities at the village school.