Ancient bridge damaged again by flood water

The historic Tarr Steps bridge on Exmoor, which was washed away during Storms Austen and Boelo, is set to be repaired.

The middle section of the ancient Tarr Steps clapper bridge across the River Barle in Exmoor National Park, Somerset, was washed away following heavy rain and flooding earlier this week.

A spokesperson for Somerset Council said repairs will begin once water levels have returned to normal.

Hilary Watson, from the nearby Tarr Farm Inn, witnessed the latest damage and has seen it happen before and says she fears this occasion "won't be the last".

"I fully appreciate that we cannot control the weather or prevent the river from flooding, but I do believe more needs to be done in terms of proactive river and woodland management."

"We cannot simply keep waiting for the next storm, assessing the damage and starting all over again," Watson added.

Exmoor National Park is urging people not to attempt to cross the River Barle at Tarr Steps and to follow temporary signs and closures.

The authority said they are aware of how "important" Tarr Steps is to residents and understands "many people will want to know" when the bridge will be reinstated.

Richard Wall described the river as just a "trickle" running down the centre just a few weeks ago when he visited.

"Compared to what it is now, it's unbelievable. I didn't think it would have washed away but looking at it now."

Somerset Council is responsible for the repairs and will develop a plan in consultation with Exmoor National Park and the Environment Agency, with guidance on protecting the surrounding natural environment.

Nick Jacklin, senior bridge engineer at Somerset Council, said: "It's a Grade I listed building and also a scheduled monument so our hands are severely tied in what we can actually do construction wise."

"It's held together entirely by gravity and friction, so there is not really a lot that we can do to do prevent further natural damage."

An Environment Agency spokesperson said: "Landowners are responsible for maintaining their watercourses on or alongside their land, including removing blockages" which includes fallen trees and excessive vegetation.

"Regular maintenance helps reduce flood risk by keeping watercourses clear and functioning effectively," they added.

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