GROWING concern about the risks of flooding in Rockwell Green have been highlighted following an Environment Agency decision to stop regular maintenance works on a number of watercourses because of a shortage of funds.

Reform UK’s town council Rockwell Green by‑election candidate Andy Denison said the Westford Stream was a key watercourse through the community and played a vital role in managing local flood risk.

But, Mr Denison said residents had consistently expressed concern about the stream and the potential impact on their homes and local infrastructure during periods of heavy rainfall.

Mr Denison said: “People in Rockwell Green have experienced disruption from flooding before, and they are rightly worried when they see essential maintenance work no longer being carried out.

“Residents deserve reassurance that the agencies responsible for flood prevention are taking their concerns seriously.”

Mr Denison said he wanted to work closely with the relevant authorities to seek clarity and push for proactive action.

He said: “I will do everything I can to bring the right people around the table and ensure that Westford Stream receives the attention it needs.

“This is not something we can afford to ignore.

“Flood prevention must be taken seriously, and local voices must be heard.”

Mr Denison is also launching a wider campaign across Rockwell Green calling for proper, regular maintenance of drains and gullies.

He said poorly maintained drainage had contributed to previous flooding incidents in the area, causing avoidable disruption for residents.

The Environment Agency has previously said it was stopping some non-statutory work in low risk areas because the Government awarded only 60 per cent of the funding it requested.

A spokesperson said: “The agency has to prioritise what works can be delivered to minimise flood risk with the funding available.

“We will continue to invest many millions of pounds in managing flood risk in Somerset.”