Residents of Bridgwater, North Petherton, and nearby villages are invited to take an active role in shaping the future of Wilstock and Stockmoor Country Park, a serene 42-hectare green space nestled close to junction 24 of the M5 motorway. This park serves as a vital natural buffer between the Stockmoor and Wilstock neighborhoods on Bridgwater’s southern edge.
Since Somerset Council assumed management in mid-2023, significant strides have been made to enhance the park, including improved pathways, seating, and a variety of public events designed to encourage community engagement. The council, along with the Friends of Stockmoor and Wilstock Country Park—a dedicated volunteer group—are calling for more locals to contribute to ongoing projects, especially as new housing developments emerge nearby.
Council leader Bill Revans, whose constituency encompasses the park, shared insights during a recent visit with volunteers. “This land was originally left undeveloped because it’s low-lying,” he explained. “Turning it into a country park was a smart masterplan decision. With the help of skilled rangers and committed volunteers, we’ve seen outstanding improvements.”
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The park has quickly grown into a beloved communal asset. Paths have been upgraded, and new features include a pond dipping platform, bird watching hides, a play trail, and additional benches. Ecologically, it’s thriving: around 1,000 trees—among them rare black poplars—have been planted, alongside new hedgerows, a community orchard, and reed beds.
Volunteers actively maintain features like the historic ‘yellow bridge’ over the Stockmoor Rhyne, with recent efforts focusing on repainting and clearing vegetation for better access. Roger Ballantine, chairperson of the Friends group, emphasized the community spirit, “This is truly a community park, and everyone who participates is part of it. We’re always keen to welcome new helpers.”
Local volunteer Daniel Weeks, who has lived on the Wilstock estate since 2017, added, “It’s great having such a large green space right on our doorstep. The rangers’ presence has made volunteer tasks more manageable and effective. I’m passionate about balancing wildlife preservation with community access.”
The park hosts numerous events, from educational sessions with schools to wellbeing walks and seasonal celebrations. With more than 500 new homes planned in the adjacent Bridgwater Gateway development, the park’s role in supporting community health and biodiversity will only grow in importance.
Looking ahead, the Somerset Rivers Authority is funding a study on the impact of regional development on local ecosystems, underscoring the need for sustainable growth. Council leader Revans summed up the vision: “We must build communities thoughtfully, ensuring developments are complemented by green spaces and robust infrastructure.”
Locals interested in volunteering can join regular sessions every Monday and alternate Wednesdays, led by council ranger Lydia Winthorpe, who highlighted, “Volunteers tackle everything from construction to bramble clearing, rain or shine. We want to empower the community to enjoy and care for this remarkable space.”
For those eager to help or learn more, contact the council at [email protected] or search ‘Wilstock & Stockmoor Country Park’ on Facebook.