Back Water Clean-up
The historic stretch of water between Cocklemoor and the backs of the houses of Bow Street in the centre of Langport is known as the Back Water. It was created initially to allow Langport merchants to load up their boats and sail into the main River Parrett channel.
Since it was sealed off from the main river channel, the stagnant stretch of water has been a problem as a breeding ground for mosquitos and prone to silting up.
Over the past few weeks South Somerset District Council’s Streetscene team have taken to the water last week to help clean up the Back water. Abandoning their usual street cleaning apparatus, the Streetscene team launched a small flat-bottomed boat from which to access much of the problem area along the town bank. The team took just two days to fell many overhanging branches and clear away much of the scrub encroaching over the water.
District councillor for Langport and Huish – Clare Aparicio applauded the clean up “This historic bit of water has, in recent years, suffered from overgrown trees, bushes and brambles, especially along its north bank. Already many Langport residents have commented on how much better the area looks and are grateful to the District Council for its support in ensuring that this historic town maintains its attraction.”