River Parrett dredging moves ahead

New dredging of the River Parrett has got off to a good start this week between Northmoor and the M5, Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA) reports.

“Thanks to Somerset Drainage Boards Consortium and contractors Van Oord for getting on with this important job for Somerset Rivers Authority, within some challenging coronavirus restrictions,” SRA said in their latest announcement.

“Thanks also to Environment Agency – Wessex and Natural England for their help, and the Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership for Growth Deals funding.”

These latest photos show Van Oord’s water injection dredging vessel Borr at work on the river, and – for a clearer view – the boat with its water injection bar raised.

This dredging will help to reduce local flood risks. It is part of a series of improvements, like those planned for the River Sowy and King’s Sedgemoor Drain later this year.