In 2016 Midsomer Norton Town Council acquired 19 acres (8 ha) of former agricultural land and a disused coal spoil heap (batch), alongside the River Somer, for use as a Town Park.

 

Since closure of the Norton Hill colliery in 1966 the site had lain abandoned, developing a rich and diverse ecology, ranging from maturing woodland, riparian habitat and a variety of grassland and mosaic habitats that play host to several protected species including slow worms, grass snakes, bats and possibly otters, as well as a diverse flora, including three species of orchid.

 

New Leaf Studio were commissioned by The Town Council to assist with developing initial ideas into reality. This entailed further development of a previous masterplan into something that could be practically achieved; advice on the logistics of phasing; resolving outstanding statutory permissions; production of detailed technical designs; procuring contractors; project management and contract administration for several phases of improvement works, as funds became available. We have also produced a comprehensive management plan for the site in conjunction with ecological and arboricultural consultants.

 

Work to date has included:

• Enhancing to main west entrance, giving the park a stronger visual presence.

• New sensory garden

• Improvements to access, including pathways and steps, with some works progressed by The Conservation Volunteers (TCV)

• Providing a link to the adjacent Midsomer Norton to Radstock "Five Arches" Greenway.

• Re-configuring engineered concrete drainage channels to provide a more natural and biodiverse watercourse

• Formation of a meander pool at the side of the river Somer, allowing greater visibility and human interaction with the river

• Creation of a 1 acre multifunctional grass events space, while maintaining the existing biodiversity of the grassland

• Formation of a 300 seater amphitheater on the slopes of the batch.

• Helping to facilitate a route for a regular 5 km community run

• Installation of seating

• Design and commissioning of an interpretation scheme