A significant tidal barrier project worth £230m in Somerset has secured council approval, potentially enabling construction to commence later this year.
- The Bridgwater Tidal Barrier aims to provide enhanced flood protection for the town of Bridgwater and its surrounding areas.
- The project, primarily funded by the Environment Agency, requires final approval from the Treasury to proceed.
- The new Somerset Council has approved a financial contribution towards the project, emphasising its urgency.
- Construction could begin with test piling work starting in September, aiming for completion in the 2028/29 financial year.
The Bridgwater Tidal Barrier, a substantial infrastructure project valued at £230m, is poised to transform flood management in Bridgwater and nearby areas. This initiative has cleared a major hurdle with the local council’s backing, positioning it for a possible construction start later this year. The project is a collaborative effort largely financed by the Environment Agency, reflecting the shared commitment to safeguard against flooding.
The need for this barrier intensified following governmental restructuring, which saw the former Sedgemoor District Council merge into the broader Somerset Council. The urgency of this project was underscored in a report by Somerset Council officers, which highlighted the critical necessity of obtaining Treasury approval to finalise this vital infrastructure investment.
The Somerset Council has committed up to £13.7m towards the project, reinforcing its significance. This financial endorsement was confirmed at a recent meeting of the new unitary authority, which is keen to expedite the process. Kier, serving as the preferred contractor, is already engaged in preliminary works on-site, preparing for the main construction phase.
Detailed plans for the tidal barrier feature two substantial movable gates, each measuring 30 metres in width and 10 metres in height, with a weight of around 80 tonnes each. These gates are designed to be operational during high tide events, thereby mitigating flood risk. Scheduled to commence main construction work later this year, the project is targeted for completion in the 2028/29 financial period.
As preparations advance, test piling is anticipated to begin in September. These tests are crucial for refining the barrier’s design, providing assurance for the project’s structural integrity and operational effectiveness. A decision from the Treasury is awaited in the coming weeks, which is pivotal for the project’s progression.
The Bridgwater Tidal Barrier project stands on the cusp of realisation, contingent upon imminent Treasury approval.
