Croscombe, along with other areas in Somerset, is currently under the spotlight as local authorities delve into the causes and impacts of recent flooding incidents.

The village found itself grappling with the consequences of Storm Henk in early January 2024.

This event, part of a series of flooding incidents that have stirred concerns among both residents and officials, has prompted the initiation of detailed flood investigations by the council.

Following the distressing floods in December 2023, which saw 14 properties in Martock submerged, and the broader damage inflicted by Storm Henk across Somerset — affecting over 50 properties in areas including Croscombe, Bruton, Knole, Nunney, and Shepton Mallet — the council has launched an inquiry.

These investigations aim to dissect the reasons behind the flooding, evaluate the effectiveness of the response efforts, and develop strategies to mitigate similar occurrences in the future.

Anna Meares, the council's flood investigation officer, said:, "Flooding is a sensitive topic due to loss of property and livelihood. Recurring flooding leaves residents anxious of repeat events. Reports need to be published so lessons can be learned, mitigations put in place, repeat events avoided, and flood responses improved."

However, these essential investigations have been delayed due to staffing constraints within the council's flood and coastal team, leading to a significant backlog in producing Section 19 reports. These reports are crucial for the comprehensive documentation and analysis of flood events, as required by law.

This delay has particularly affected Croscombe and other impacted communities, delaying the implementation of preventive measures and increasing anxiety among residents about future flood risks.

The backlog has reached a point where the council only recently managed to publish its final report on the October 2020 floods in Shepton Mallet and surrounding areas. Reports on the May and September 2023 floods are expected before Christmas, but those concerning the December 2023 and January 2024 incidents, including the one affecting Croscombe, won't be available until the early summer of 2025.