WORK is set to begin on a major project to improve flood defences at Chard Reservoir – meaning a road will be closed for 10 weeks.

The Somerset Council scheme will strengthen the reservoir’s barrier and help protect the dam from future flooding events.

Part-funded by the Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA), the work will see a ‘wave wall’ built to reduce the risk of the reservoir failing, as well as culvert reconstruction, and re-grading the Anglers car park.

As contractor Kier carries out the work – expected to be completed by the summer – a full road closure will be in place along Chaffcombe Lane from April 28, though pedestrian access to the reservoir will remain open.

The Anglers’ car park will remain open for anglers only, with access from the Chaffcombe side. All other visitors to the nature reserve are advised to park at Oaklands car park.

Councillor Graham Oakes, lead member for public health, environment, and climate change, said: “It is vital that we do this work to make the reservoir more resilient and to protect local communities from the devastating effects of the dam failing.

“Chard Reservoir is a beautiful place to visit and enjoy and I am glad that people will still be able to access it during the works.”

Cllr Mike Stanton, chair of SRA, added: “The SRA’s core purpose is to reduce the risks and impacts of flooding, which is why we agreed to make a significant contribution towards the costs of this work.

“It will decrease flood risks for nearly 1,000 properties and benefit a wide area from Chard down to Muchelney, so it’s great to see it getting underway.”

Chard Reservoir was owned by South Somerset District Council until the unitary Somerset Council came into being in April 2023.

The need for the wall was identified during an independent safety audit and is a legal requirement under the Reservoirs Safety Act.