Bovey Tracey plans new safety measures after flooding at Mill Marsh Park
New water safety equipment and flood warning signs are planned for Mill Marsh Park in Bovey Tracey after a review of risks at the popular family destination
Bovey Tracey Town Council is planning new water safety measures at Mill Marsh Park, including a life buoy, throw-rope and signs warning visitors about flooding.
The improvements follow a review of risks at the popular park, where families visit the play area and open spaces, while children and dogs are also often seen in the River Bovey.
Last winter’s flooding increased the council’s focus on water safety.
Members of its Recreation, Parks and Property Committee have agreed to move ahead with the planned improvements.
The council is now seeking quotes from specialist suppliers for the lifesaving equipment, alongside estimates for the new signs.
Cllr Martyn Evans has helped identify potential risks and commissioned a risk assessment and water safety report, which committee members have considered.
Mayor Cllr Sheila Brooke said: “It is essential we take practical measures to help avoid water tragedies and I’m happy that the changes we are planning will meet that objective.”
She said visitors also had a responsibility to stay safe, adding that it was not possible to prepare for every eventuality.
“Parents and carers should always supervise children and no one should ever enter the water if intoxicated,” she said.
The planned flood warning signs will advise people not to enter the park when the river has burst its banks.
A new rescue point will also display a What3Words location to help emergency services identify where assistance is needed.
Cllr Brooke said Mill Marsh Park had a “great safety record” that the council wanted to maintain.
Further work could also be considered to stabilise parts of the riverbank, helping to address erosion and support flood prevention.
The council has not yet provided a timetable for installing the new equipment and signs.