Axbridge, a picturesque Somerset town noted for its historic charm and recent TV filming, is set to benefit from new community enhancements if proposed plans receive approval. Situated north of Cheddar Reservoir and nestled under the Mendip Hills national landscape, this small town has long attracted visitors and served as a backdrop for series such as Can You Keep A Secret? and A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder.
Axbridge Town Council has proposed converting a parcel of land adjacent to the reservoir and next to the existing Furlong Recreation Ground into a community space featuring an orchard and improved footpaths. The land, positioned south of Knightstone Close homes and connected to the popular recreation ground where the Axbridge Saxons Football Club play, was gifted to the town council by local resident Richard Law following the passing of his father, Derek Law, in February 2021. The donation ensures the land remains dedicated to community recreational use indefinitely and cannot be developed for housing.
Currently accessible via three footpaths from Furlong Recreation Ground, Knightstone Close, and Portmeade Drove-with the latter crossing the Old River Axe-the site will see enhancements including new signage and educational materials along these routes. A small cider orchard is planned near the northern entrance, complemented by newly planted trees such as oaks lining the footpaths and native hedges like blackthorn and honeysuckle on the western flank of the site. Maintenance facilities will be provided through the installation of a shipping container on the eastern side.
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By bolstering these rights of way, the initiative aims to facilitate easier access for Axbridge residents to the reservoir, particularly via a route behind the local pumping station, with prospects to better connect with the Strawberry Line active travel route in the future.
Representatives of P&M Advisory Ltd, on behalf of the town council, highlighted that the scheme aligns with the Axbridge Neighbourhood Plan adopted in spring 2022. The plan emphasises conserving and enhancing countryside access, promoting environmental stewardship, and improving community recreation and play spaces. The spokesperson noted the project will make “a small but important” contribution to the social and environmental welfare of the area, supporting the town’s vision.
Somerset Council is anticipated to reach a decision on the proposal before Christmas. Given the town council’s role as applicant and the application’s significance within the former Sedgemoor region, the final determination may be made publicly by the planning committee north rather than through delegated authority by council planning officers.