Construction to start on new park visitor centre

The new centre will open in the Autumn

Construction on a visitor centre at a Somerset country park will begin in March after a National Lottery Heritage Fund grant worth £2.153m was secured.

The project at Ham Hill Country Park, near Yeovil, will feature a cafe, exhibition space and changing facilities.

Local business Leonardo has also contributed to the project, as well as other local and national charities.

The first work to take place will include connecting water and energy to the site, with the construction beginning at the end of March.

The building's design will be inspired by the shape of a round house, reflecting the site's Iron Age heritage.

The centre, which councillors hope will open in the autumn, will include a new cafe

The funding will also pay for two new members of staff, an assistant ranger and an engagement ranger, whose jobs it will be to help conserve the park.

Councillor Grahame Oakes, Somerset Council's lead member for public health, environment and climate change said: "We are committed to making Ham Hill an accessible place where people can connect with nature and history in meaningful ways, ensuring this much-loved historical beauty spot is preserved for future generations and continues to be a wildlife haven.

"This project will also serve as a model for heritage and conservation efforts across Somerset, inspiring similar initiatives throughout the county.

"We are extremely grateful to the heritage fund and other generous benefactors for their amazing support—without them, this project would have just been a dream."

It is hoped the new centre will be open in the autumn.