Engineering Projects
The Boards deliver an annual programme of improvement works to watercourses and structures that they operate and maintain.
All watercourses and structures that exist within the Board’s statutory areas are mapped in detail with operational responsibility clearly identified for each. These online maps are used to support staff in the office and out in the field to better manage and maintain the watercourses and structures that we are custodian of.
Project Development Stages
STAGE ONE
As a first stage in the development of the Boards’ Programmes, the Board utilises a defects database that allows field operatives (Area Supervisors) to report on issues with structures, culverts, access for maintenance and condition of watercourses through an online phone application which directly links to a GPS location and mapping (ARC GIS software). Area Managers can provide photos and descriptions of the issues together with an indication of the urgency of the work required. This list of defects is sent to the Operations and Engineering Team to review and prioritise. Minor adaptations and repairs to structures or banks are programmed in for the Operations team to deliver within year. Any redesign, removal or replacement of structures is worked into the future Programme of Works for the Engineering Team to design and deliver. These works are prioritised based on urgency to develop a deliverable annual programme of works.
STAGE TWO
As a second stage, we look to engage with partners on how to better manage water across the board areas, particularly where this might align with other organisations aspirations for areas of the catchment. This enables the board to be at the forefront of innovation and adaptation with regards to flood risk management and water resource management. This then opens the doorway to other sources of funding to deliver larger scale strategic projects across the board areas. This programme is developed and delivered within a framework of national, regional, catchment and local water management plans that are the result of European and National initiatives to meet flood risk and environmental regulations and targets.
Project Plans
Shown is an overview of the number of projects currently being delivered and planned for delivery through 2026/27. These projects have also been mapped and details of completed projects can be found through our mapping database.
Funding for the Engineering Programme of Works are financed by rates and levies raised as well as grant aid from Defra and locally sourced funding through the Somerset Rivers Authority. The Boards will continue to seek out and utilise opportunities to obtain additional funding for capital projects that benefit landowners and communities within our area.
Latest Projects
Annual Water Injection Dredging
The Parrett Internal Drainage Board have managed the delivery of the Water Injection Dredging (WID) on the River Parrett since 2016.