EARLY investigations have been completed into flooding which has repeatedly affected a car park in Watchet.

Somerset Council has been looking at why the Market Street car park has experienced surface water flooding, including at its entrance and in an adjacent property.

It now wants to explore the options available to prevent both surface water and sewer flood risk.

A spokesperson said: “As part of these investigations, we are keen to work with Watchet Town Council, Watchet Task Force, and the local community to assess the options and potentially shape these solutions.

“Our own investigations into flooding and storm overflows in this area have highlighted the potential for new sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) features that could help manage heavy rainfall more effectively.

“They could also improve water quality, biodiversity, and upgrade the visual character of the area while reducing the flood risk.

“SuDS help rainwater soak away more naturally.

“They slow down, store, and treat water where it lands before it reaches drains, rivers, or the ground.

“SuDS can take many forms, including rain gardens, planters, permeable paving, and other green features that bring wildlife and visual benefits.

“We have been exploring if and how features such as these may be able to help enhance long-term resilience in Market Street car park.”

The spokesperson said the work was being delivered by Wessex Water together with Somerset Council and part-funded by the water company and Somerset Rivers Authority.

They said: “We will continue to work closely with Watchet Town Council and the Watchet Task Force throughout the project.

“Working with partners, we will be developing early design options, aiming to share these first concepts with residents in the spring.”

Residents will be invited to an engagement session to discuss the potential options and give their views on what might be most appropriate.