Huge new nature reserve planned for growing Somerset town

A vital green wedge in a growing Somerset town will soon be extended through the creation of a new nature reserve. Wellington is currently separated from the neighbouring village of Rockwell Green through a series of green fields and public open spaces, running from Tonedale Mill to the A38.

Around 64 acres (26 hectares) of land between Fox’s Field (near the mill complex) and Exeter Road was signed over to Wellington Town Council in January 2023 on a 150-year lease, allowing local councillors to protect and enhance the Basins for future generations. Now a local farming family is aiming to protect a large portion of land to the south of Exeter Road by creating a brand new nature reserve, enhancing the town’s biodiversity and providing local residents with a green oasis to enjoy.

The Trinity Farm Nature Reserve will be created between the existing homes on Farthing Pitts and Hilly Head, not far from the town’s cemetery. The land currently forms part of K. S. Coles, a family farm which has been cultivating the land since the 1960s and has actively engaged with environmental stewardship.