SRA Annual Report 2024-25: Siphons Appraisal
Investigations began into three of the 14 siphons known to exist in the Axe-Brue and Parrett catchments.
Siphons are pipe structures which enable water to go underneath a river from one side to the other without entering the river itself.
They are designed to ensure that large amounts of water, in a managed system, go where they are supposed to go.
The consequences otherwise could be widespread flooding or – in drier times of year – a serious lack of water.
The Axe Brue Internal Drainage Board is using SRA funding to examine the three siphons judged to pose the biggest flood risks if they failed.
One (called Swallows) goes under the River Brue about 1.5 miles north-west of Baltonsborough in the Watchwell Drove-Butt Moor area, one goes under the River Sheppey on the eastern edge of Lower Godney, one goes under the Old River Axe on the southern edge of Cross.
Sites were cleared of vegetation that was impeding access and inspection, and an experienced specialist contractor was appointed, as divers are needed for thorough siphon investigations (as below at Swallows).
An overall appraisal is expected to be completed in 2025, including recommendations for any further works needed.
