River Parrett dredging moves ahead January 20, 2021, by Eldin Ganic
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.
A NEW section of the River Parrett is to be dredged for Somerset Rivers Authority to reduce flood risks to local people, properties, roads and land. Large quantities of silt will be removed from 1.37miles (2.2km) of the river between Moorland and the M5, to increase its capacity to carry flood water. The dredging is due to start on Thursday (January 14). It is being delivered for Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA) by the Parrett Internal Drainage Board (IDB), working closely with the Environment Agency and Natural England, and using Growth Deal funding from the Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership.