Ham hill visitor centre planned to showcase Iron Age fort's history
- Published
Tourism is expected to increase at the UK's largest Iron Age hillfort thanks to plans to develop a visitor centre and cafe at the attraction.
South Somerset District Council has voted in favour of developing Ham Hill Country Park in Stoke-sub-Hamdon, which some said flew a bit under the radar.
The centre will also include permanent and temporary exhibition spaces, education facilities and a play area.
Work could begin in 2023, if £1.6m of National Lottery funding is approved.
The existing car park will also be improved and electric vehicle charging points will be installed.
Martin Cook, who has muscular dystrophy, told a committee the visitors' centre would mean more disabled people like him would be able to enjoy the countryside near Yeovil.
He said: "Despite my physical challenges, it is still possible for me to access the countryside with the right equipment and support.
"Tramper off-road mobility scooters can travel over stone, mud and grass.
"Through Countryside Mobility, a Devon charity, there's the opportunity to actually have a tramper at Ham Hill available for people with disabilities to use".
Steve Pullman, who lives in Stoke-sub-Hamdon and regularly volunteers at the country park, said: "The hill is what attracted me to move here in the first place.
"It's always been surprising to me that such a gem, with such history and heritage, is rather low-key and not well promoted.
"There's quite a lack of knowledge in the area regarding the background to the park and the history.
"It's going to be much better for all concerned if we can produce a centre that will enhance that."
Stuart McLeod, Director England, London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: "We're pleased to hear that the development of Ham Hill's visitor centre has been given the green light at a recent South Somerset District Council meeting.
"We gave our initial support with a £98,000 grant in 2019 so they can progress their plans to apply for a full grant of £1.6m."
The decision on this larger grant should be made in the next few weeks.
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