Conservative-controlled Somerset County Council has taken proactive and decisive action to reduce the risk of flooding the catchment areas of the Rivers Parrett and Tone.
Following the County Cabinet meeting on 11th September 2013, Cllr David Hall, Cabinet Member for Business, Inward Investment and Policy, said "During the election we said that we would do our utmost to defend residents and local businesses from flooding - this decision by the Cabinet, delivers on that commitment. We believe in the strength of partnership working; this project demonstrates the benefits that can be achieved for residents, businesses and infrastructure when we all work together".
Conservative controlled Somerset County Council has committed a contribution of £300,000 towards dredging works in the Rivers Parrett and Tone. The Cabinet also endorsed the outcomes from the 2012 Somerset Flood Summit, which brought together many bodies including the local authorities and the Environment Agency.
Cllr David Hall continued "This money will be focused on delivering a safer environment. Last year the County Council was strongly represented at the Flood Summit 2012. We are fully backing the recommendations from that summit and are working in partnership with the responsible agencies, striving to ensure Somerset remains a safe place to live and remain open for business regardless of the weather conditions".
Cllr David Hall concluded by saying "We are providing firm leadership in this matter - as a further commitment, Somerset County Council will facilitate the partnership work required to deliver. By working with other agencies and local authorities, it should be possible to reduce the duration of managed flooding on Curry Moor by up to 50%, bring direct relief to properties on North and Salt Moors and to reduce the duration of flooding on the A361, and many other lanes and railways".