BRIDGWATER residents have their chance to have their say about the proposed Bridgwater Tidal Barrier on the River Parrett this week.

There will be an open consultation exhibition this Thursday, between 2pm and 7pm at Bridgwater Arts Centre in Castle Street for people hear the latest news and give their views.

For those who cannot make 15th September, there will be an information point in Angel Place Shopping Centre during the morning of Saturday, 24th September.

The Environment Agency and Sedgemoor District Council are working in partnership to deliver the scheme by 2024, subject to funding and approvals. Consultants CH2MHill, have been appointed as consultants to explore various technical options.

In March, there was a consultation exhibition attended by 125 residents, which saw seven potential locations for the proposed tidal barrier.

Feedback collected from the event has been used to support the short listing process of reducing the original seven locations to a smaller number for more detailed assessment.

During the spring and summer, there has been a more detailed assessment of locations 2 and 4–7 including the downstream defences.

This work has included hydraulic modelling, concept design, costing and economic, geotechnical and environmental assessment.

At the exhibition, there will be information boards presenting a shortlist of options, listing the advantages and disadvantages for each location.

The project team will be on hand to answer queries and questions.

A spokesman for Sedgemoor District Council said: "This is an opportunity to ensure that all thoughts and opinions are taken into consideration, so please come along and chat to the project team. We look forward to seeing you."

A tidal surge barrier on the River Parrett (estuary pictured above, looking towards Bridgwater) is needed to protect approximately 10,000 properties and over 600 businesses in Bridgwater for the next 100 years or more.

It’s a key element of Somerset’s 20-Year Flood Action Plan, a plan now overseen and co-ordinated by Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA).

If you would like further information but are unable to attend either event please email: Bridgwater.barrier@environment-agency.gov.uk.