Somerset projects celebrated for excellence at countryside awards
Two initiatives receive recognition for enhancing rural communities
Two initiatives by Somerset Council have been honoured at the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) Somerset Love Your Countryside Awards, emphasising outstanding contributions to rural community enhancement.
The recognition went to the Ham Hill Country Park project titled “Uncovering Ham Hill’s past for its future," which earned accolades for improving countryside access, preserving heritage, and fostering connections with nature.
Additionally, the Rainbow Way housing development in Minehead was acknowledged for delivering high-quality, energy-efficient homes to local residents.
The award-winning Ham Hill initiative is a five-year programme funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund focusing on access enhancement, heritage conservation, and broader community involvement.
New Paths and Facilities
The Ham Hill project has successfully established new and improved paths alongside waymarked trails, thus enhancing site exploration. A newly accessible visitor centre equipped with exhibition space, café and community facilities also forms part of the initiative.
Greater biodiversity and habitat protection efforts have materialised, including support measures for species like the Shrill Carder Bee. Volunteering, learning, and community archaeology opportunities have increased as well.
Enhanced accessibility features include an all-terrain mobility vehicle and upgraded site facilities. Volunteers have played an essential role in management and protection efforts.
Minehead Housing Success
In Minehead, the Rainbow Way development marks the town's first batch of new council homes in a generation, totalling 54 residences. Developed in collaboration with Homes in Somerset, these homes consist of flats and houses that are energy-efficient and affordable, prioritised for individuals with strong local connections.
Fully occupied now, these homes bolster the provision of secure, high-quality accommodation for locals while advancing the Council’s broader goal of sustainable housing.
Cllr Bill Revans, Leader of Somerset Council, expressed satisfaction regarding the awards recognition, emphasising the importance of conserving heritage and delivering essential housing.
Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts, Lead Member for Communities, praised the award highlighting the positive impacts of team dedication, noting efforts making countryside accessible and offering energy-efficient housing.
For more insights on CPRE Somerset and other notable projects represented at the Somerset Love Your Countryside Awards, visit CPRE Somerset .