Flood forum: Update and next steps

25 Feb 2025

Thank You for Attending

Thank you to everyone who attended the recent Flood Forum on 13th February 2025. With over 100 people in the room, the turnout was a clear demonstration of just how much this issue is impacting our communities. The meeting provided an opportunity for residents to voice concerns, receive updates from key agencies, and gain a better understanding of the challenges surrounding flood prevention and recovery in South Somerset.

We are grateful to the panel members from Somerset Council, the Environment Agency, Wessex Water, The Somerset Wildlife Trust, The Somerset Drainage Board, and the Somerset Rivers Authority for their time and insights. While not all issues can be solved overnight, Adam Dance MP is committed to pushing for action and investment to protect our communities from repeated flooding.

Key Takeaways from the Meeting

The Scale of the Impact

The recent flooding has caused significant damage, with up to 200 properties affected, though only 40 had been formally reported.
Reporting flood damage is essential to ensure our area receives the funding and support it needs. Report flooding here: Somerset Council Flood Reporting

Flood Recovery Ongoing

Somerset Council is still in the recovery phase, which is expected to take another two to three weeks.
Recent cleanup efforts have already removed over 70 tons of waste.

The Need for Long-Term Solutions

There is no single fix—preventing and managing flooding requires a combination of improved drainage, better land management, stronger planning policies, and increased funding.

Government Action Needed

Adam Dance MP has already written to the Flooding Minister to demand clarity on how much of the Government’s £2.65 billion flood defence funding will come to South Somerset.
He has also tabled 11 Parliamentary Questions, called for improvements in flood risk management, and will be meeting with the Minister later this month to discuss the urgent need for better flood defences in our region.

Climate Change & Infrastructure

This type of flooding is becoming more frequent and severe.
The sheer volume of water overwhelmed existing drainage infrastructure, and there is an urgent need for improved maintenance and investment in flood defences.

Planning & Development Concerns

Residents raised concerns about the impact of new housing developments on flooding, particularly in flood-prone areas.
There were calls for stronger planning policies, better flood risk mapping, and greater accountability for developers.
Adam Dance MP will be writing to Angela Rayner MP, Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, to raise these concerns directly.

Community Collaboration

There was strong support for improved coordination between residents, parish councils, and local agencies.
Ideas discussed included:
- Flood wardens to help with road closures and reporting.
- Greater use of community-led flood response plans.

Next Steps

Continued Government Engagement

Adam Dance MP will take the issues raised directly to the Flooding Minister and continue pressing for funding and policy changes to better protect South Somerset.

Improved Reporting & Awareness

If your home was flooded—even if the damage seems minor—it is crucial that you report it to Somerset Council. Reports help secure additional government funding for flood prevention.
Report flood damage here: Somerset Council Flood Reporting

Ongoing Community Engagement

Somerset Council, alongside the Environment Agency, Wessex Water, and the Somerset Rivers Authority, will be hosting drop-in events for those affected by flooding. These will take place from 4-7pm, with no need to book ahead:

📍 Chard – Wed 26 Feb, The Guildhall, TA20 1PP
📍 Ilminster – Wed 5 Mar, The Shrubbery, TA19 9AR
📍 South Petherton – Tue 11 Mar, The David Hall, TA13 5AA

Future Meetings

Another community meeting will be scheduled in the summer to review progress and update residents on ongoing efforts.

Useful Links & Resources

Report Flood Damage to Somerset Council: Flooding Information
Floodline: Call 0345 988 1188 for updates, warnings, and reporting.
Sign Up for Flood Warnings: Gov.uk Flood Warnings
Community Flood Action Fund: Grants available between £3,000-20,000 for local flood protection projects. Somerset Rivers Authority Grants

Looking Ahead

The work does not stop here. Adam Dance MP remains committed to pushing for real action to protect our homes, businesses, and communities from future flooding. Updates will be provided as progress is made, and another Flood Forum will be held in the summer—please keep an eye out for details.

In the meantime, please stay engaged, share your experiences, and reach out with any additional concerns or ideas.

Thank you for your continued involvement and support.