'Vital route' reopens after weeks of flooding

A major route across the Somerset Levels has reopened after weeks of flooding.

Part of the A361 was closed on 25 January as water levels rose, with a major incident declared two days later due to widespread flooding.

In response, extra pumps were deployed to 19 locations across the Levels and Moors by the Environment Agency (EA). The major incident was stood down on Wednesday and and Somerset Council has since reopened the route.

Councillor Richard Wilkins, the council's lead member for transport and waste services, said he was "really pleased" that motorists were able to use the "vital route" again.

"We understand the urgency for local people, businesses and road users, but we have to ensure the road is safe and completely clear of debris," he added.

Wilkins said it had been an "unprecedented" start to the year, adding that further wet weather in the forecast meant the council was "prepared to act swiftly to reclose the road if necessary".

Some roads remain closed, including Cutts Road, Langport Road and New Road on the Levels.

Residents affected by the closures have been advised to check for updates on the Travel Somerset Facebook page or the website and plan their journeys ahead carefully.

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