Tidal barrier to cost nearly a quarter of a billion pounds

Barge arrives for Bridgwater

The construction of a tidal barrier to protect thousands of Bridgwater homes and businesses has taken a huge step forward following the arrival of a specialist barge from Liverpool.

The barrier is in the early stages of construction, with the project now expected to cost around £230m in light of high inflation and supply chain issues within the construction industry.

The Treasury finally signed off on the business case for the Bridgwater tidal barrier in September 2024, with around £43m of funding for the 2025/26 financial year being confirmed by Defra in January.

The construction programme can now move forward at pace after the Haven SeaSeven jack up barge arrived at the barrier site on the River Parrett.

The customised vessel began its long journey from Liverpool Docks on February 27, finally arriving in the river channel on Thursday (March 13)

The barge will be a “dominant feature” in the local area for the coming months, providing a stable working platform for the erection of the barrier.

The barge (which includes a 300-tonne crane) will enable construction of the cofferdam (an enclosure pumped dry to allow work below the water level) and bearing piles for the barrier’s foundations.

Rachel Burden, Environment Agency flood and coastal risk manager for Wessex, said: “The jack up barge is a critical piece of infrastructure and its arrival in Bridgwater marks an exciting milestone in the construction of what will be one of the biggest flood defence schemes in the country.

“The barrier will be a hugely positive asset for the town and surrounding areas, reducing flood risk and bringing significant economic benefits for years to come. This is a big step towards delivery.”

Councillor Mike Rigby, portfolio holder for economic development, planning and assets, added: “As we see more frequent severe weather, anything that reduces the flood risk in the county is welcome, alongside work to help communities adapt and become more resilient to flooding.”

The finished barrier – which will enter operation in 2027 – will provide protection to more than 11,300 homes and more than 1,500 businesses.

Philip Ramsay, Kier’s natural resources, nuclear and networks operations director, said: “It’s brilliant to see the progress on both sides of the River Parrett including the arrival of the jack up barge.

“It’s a significant step in this vital flood defence scheme to protect Somerset communities.”

Councillor Mike Stanton, chairman of the Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA), added: “This barrier will be a monumental achievement that will help to protect the Bridgwater area for decades.

“One of the main targets of Somerset’s 20 Year Flood Action Plan, produced during the floods of 2014, was to get a barrier completed more quickly. I’m happy the SRA has been able to help do that.”