Taylor Wimpey Exeter plans to create new wetlands adjacent to the River Parrett to enable the continuation of one of Somerset’s largest housing developments. The Wool Gardens project, currently in its first phase, is being developed on the Crewkerne Key Site and will eventually offer 635 homes, commercial spaces, and a care home, situated between the A30 Yeovil Road and the A356 Station Road.
Located within the River Parrett catchment area, the development must address environmental regulations to prevent a net increase of phosphates on the Somerset Levels and Moors. To meet these obligations and maintain momentum for the second phase of construction, Taylor Wimpey has proposed building wetlands along the Viney Brook. Somerset Council is expected to decide on these plans later this year.
The proposed wetlands will be positioned on the eastern edge of Crewkerne near Higher Easthams Lane, with main access from Station Road. These wetlands will function as a natural filtration system, removing substantial amounts of phosphates from water flowing in Viney Brook before it joins the River Parrett.
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This initiative will facilitate the continued development of the northern section of Wool Gardens and may serve as a “nutrient credit bank,” benefiting future housing projects within Crewkerne and the wider River Parrett catchment area.
A Taylor Wimpey spokesperson stated, “Our proposals align with the South Somerset Local Plan and meet key stakeholder policies. They provide necessary phosphate mitigation solutions vital for delivering much-needed housing across Somerset.”
The wetlands will overlap with two well-known long-distance walking trails: the River Parrett Trail and the Monarch’s Way, the latter following the historic route used by King Charles II after the Battle of Worcester in 1651.
John Tennant, chairman of the Monarch’s Way Association, welcomed the biodiversity boosts the wetlands promise but voiced concerns regarding pedestrian safety and access during construction. Tennant also highlighted potential issues around narrowing the valley’s natural contours, which could affect local water tables and increase flooding risks, especially given the area’s history of waterlogging.
In response, Taylor Wimpey has committed to installing timber bridges to maintain public access along these trails both during and after construction.
Crewkerne’s southern outskirts are slated for considerable housing expansion, raising concerns about possible urban sprawl merging the town with nearby Misterton, home to the local railway station. Alongside Wool Gardens, Place Land LLP is seeking permission for 325 homes near the station, including a transport hub and expanded parking facilities. Additional developments include 145 homes at the Maple Grove site and 46 homes redeveloping the former Viney Bridge Mill site, all contributing to the town’s growth.
Somerset Council is anticipated to finalize the decision on the wetlands proposal by summer, marking a critical step in balancing housing needs with environmental stewardship.