Woodland classroom could be built at reservoir

The Chard Reservoir Volunteer Group is inviting local residents to learn more about the planned improvements

A woodland classroom could be built at a popular nature reserve as part of plans to upgrade facilities at the beauty spot.

Volunteers at Chard Reservoir, owned by Somerset Council, are now calling on the community to help fundraise for the works.

Residents will be able to view proposals at a meeting at the Boden Centre, Boden Street, on 21 May from 18:00 BST to 20:00.

Roadworks are also taking place along Chaffcombe Lane, the main route between the reservoir and Chard town centre, until July 11. The route has been closed to allow for improvements to the reservoir's dam, with the aim of reducing the risk of flooding.

Chard reservoir is popular with residents and visitors

The site currently has limited amenities for visitors, with only one compost toilet located on the opposite side of the reservoir to the children's play area and outdoor education zone.

In a statement, a spokesperson for Chard Reservoir Volunteer Group said the lack of facilities has made it difficult to host school and community groups for extended visits, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Councillor Graham Oakes, the council's lead for public health, environment and climate change, said: "The new mobile classroom will provide additional opportunities for children to engage with the natural environment and supports wider efforts to promote sustainability across Somerset."

Roadworks

During Chaffcombe Lane's closure, the anglers car park will only be accessible to club members via Chaffcombe site access.

Other visitors will need to use the Oaklands car park at the bottom of Oaklands Avenue. Pedestrian routes via the Stop Line Way and from Oaklands car park across Touches Lane will remain open.