Taunton’s latest community hub took a major step forward on Saturday with the official opening of the new civic square on Egremont Road, attracting hundreds of local residents for a day filled with fun and festivities.
Situated near the western entrance of the Orchard Grove housing estate, the civic square represents a key milestone for the Orchard Grove Consortium—an ambitious partnership between Taylor Wimpey, Bovis Homes, Linden Homes, and LiveWest. This extensive development, poised to deliver 2,000 homes between Wellington Road (A38) and Honiton Road, is designed to foster a vibrant community with amenities such as a primary school, commercial spaces, a care home, a park and bus facility, as well as a neighbourhood centre featuring local shops and a potential community hub.
The new civic square, nestled at the top of Egremont Road, features tree-lined walkways, a strikingly carved bench, and an inviting open space perfect for public gatherings. Connected by fresh pedestrian paths to the nearby park and bus facility, it offers residents a welcoming place to meet, relax, and enjoy community life.
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The opening ceremony on July 11 was led by Taunton and Wellington MP Gideon Amos, joined by Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Somerset Sheila Wheeler, Somerset Council members Dawn Johnson, Habib Farbahi, and John Hunt, alongside Orchard Grove Church ministers Jon and Imogen Ball. Reflecting the square’s nature-inspired theme, children engaged in creative activities like wildlife mask making, bug hotel decorating, and nature-themed crafts.
The event buzzed with excitement, thanks to giant garden games, including oversized Connect 4, live performances by West Country singer-songwriter Rue and the MAD Community CIC dance group, and refreshment stalls offering complimentary ice lollies and drinks from Luxe Lolly Company and Malton’s Drinks Company. Nearby, Amica Care, which operates the forthcoming Greenlands Meadow care home, hosted a fun stall with crafts, face painting, a lucky dip toy giveaway, and free cake.
Joanna Barraclough, Regional Sales and Marketing Director at Vistry, part of the Orchard Grove consortium, expressed her enthusiasm: “The opening of the civic square is a fantastic milestone for Orchard Grove. It’s our first dedicated public meeting space within the development, and it was heartwarming to see so many residents come together to celebrate. We envision this square as the heart of the community, a place where people gather, connect, and enjoy for many years ahead. It embodies Orchard Grove’s commitment to fostering sustainable, integrated spaces where community life thrives.”
MP Gideon Amos, who has been a strong advocate for expanding local services within Orchard Grove, highlighted the importance of thoughtfully designed public spaces: “As an architect by training, I understand how vital good design is to creating vibrant communities. Civic squares like this are more than just physical spaces—they’re about fostering togetherness and giving people places to genuinely enjoy. I’m proud to see this addition to Orchard Grove and pleased to support its continued growth alongside local leaders and the church community. This square will surely become a focal point for residents’ daily lives.”
Development continues steadily, with construction underway on 209 new homes in the estate’s western neighbourhood along Egremont Road, following approval from Somerset Council’s planning committee in March. Additionally, plans for 117 more homes near Higher Comeytrowe Farm Lane are currently under review, with a decision anticipated by Christmas. Community green space enhancements are also planned, including the forthcoming Hortsbridge Park near the Lipe Hill Lane active travel link, expected to feature allotments, an amphitheatre, and a spacious children’s play area.
With these exciting developments, Orchard Grove is shaping up to be a thriving, well-served neighbourhood where residents can truly enjoy the benefits of thoughtful urban planning and community spirit.