TIME is running out to have your say on proposals for engineering works to protect more than 200 properties in Taunton from flooding.

The scheme between Firepool Lock and Obridge would prevent floodwater from the River Tone entering the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal.

That would reduce the risk of floodwater overtopping into Maiden's Brook and then Allen's Brook at Bathpool, benefitting 219 properties in the Priorswood and Crown Industrial Estates and Bathpool.

The Taunton Strategic Flood Alleviation Improvements Scheme sets out a number of interventions in Taunton to reduce flood risks from the Tone and its complex network of tributaries, particularly the Galmington, Sherford and Mill streams.

The plan for the section, from Firepool Lock to Obridge is to:

  • raise Firepool Lock gates and the area around them;
  • and create defences between the River Tone and the Bridgwater to Taunton Canal, from Firepool Lock to the A358 Obridge Viaduct.

The project is being led by Somerset West and Taunton Council (SWT) with support from the Environment Agency (EA), while engineering consultancy firm WSP is leading the design solution and the process of gaining necessary consents.

Detailed engineering design work is proposed to be undertaken as part of the next phase of work, should the relevant consents and permissions be obtained in the current phase of work.

A public consultation on the Firepool Lock to Obridge scheme started last month and end on Sunday (August 7).

An SWT spokesperson said: "Following the consultation exercise, SWT will consider: what modifications need to be made to the plans whilst still being in compliance with Government regulations; and take into account any other representations made in relation to the plans.

"The scheme is a complex engineering solution that will prevent flooding in Firepool, Bathpool and Priorswood and Crown Industrial Estates.

"It will serve current and future generations in Taunton by managing the flood risk better.

"Feedback from this engagement with the local community will be key; SWT will then continue to work in partnership with the EA and other key stakeholders to secure delivery of the project."

There is still time to have your say online at somersetwestandtaunton.gov.uk/news/have-your-say-on-proposal-to-manage-flood-risk/