The centre of Milverton was shut this week as work started to reduce the risk of flooding as experienced by the village last year.

Somerset Council contractors Kier were replacing kerbs and gullies which connect into the drainage system in the Sand Street area.

However, the roadworks meant Sand Street had to be closed near the village stores for 24 hours a day for seven days.

Flooding in Sand Street, Milverton, on Tuesday afternoon.
Flooding in Sand Street, Milverton, which happened in May, 2023. (DSFR)

The project, which started on Monday (July 29) was scheduled to be completed by Tuesday (August 6).

Milverton experienced knee-deep flooding in May, 2023, when torrential rain and electrical storms hit the area.

Dozens of homes were inundated as water ran downhill past Milverton Primary School into the village despite the efforts of residents to unblock a culvert.

An official diversion route has been set up during the roadworks which directs traffic via Taunton and the A38, although many local residents were instead using minor roads to reduce journey lengths.

Despite the disruption, the work was welcomed by residents who recognised the long-term benefit of reducing the flooding risk.

A diversion is in place for seven days while Milverton's Sand Street is closed for anti-flood work.
A diversion is in place for seven days while Milverton's Sand Street is closed for anti-flood work. PHOTO: Chris Penney. ( )

One resident, former holiday park manager Alan Carlton, said on social media: “I think a little disruption for a few days will make a lot of difference to the folk living there.

“At the moment, they must dread it when we have heavy rain. Nice to see it is being sorted.”

Another resident, Lucy Bright, said: “On the bright side, it will mean a short reprieve from the larger vehicles being able to hurtle through the village.”