A WALKING route around one of Somerset’s main reservoirs will soon be enhanced as part of plans to create new wetlands and woods in the local area.

Wessex Water operates Durleigh Reservoir off Enmore Road on the western edge of Bridgwater, a stone’s through from the Quantock Hills area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB).

In addition to providing water for Bridgwater and the neighbouring settlements, the 80-acre reservoir is a popular visitor attraction, with a popular sailing club and a sizeable community of anglers.

Somerset Council has now granted permission to create new wetlands and woodland at the western edge of the reservoir, allowing an existing walking route around the site to be enhanced.

It is currently possible to walk a complete circuit of the reservoir, walking along Enmore Road to the east and south and following public rights of way along its western and northern border.

However, Enmore Road has long stretches without any pavement, while the land around the reservoir is prone to becoming waterlogged after prolonged periods of rain.

Under the approved plans, two parcels of land at the western edge of the reservoir will be set aside to deliver new wetlands, with additional tree planting to extend the existing tree cover near Durleigh Brook.

The existing footpath, which runs from Enmore Road across Durleigh Brook towards West Bower Lane, will be raised in selected areas above the wetlands, making it easier for pedestrians and dog-walkers to access the area.

A spokesman for Wessex Water said: “The woodland planting scheme will include a range of native woodland habitat types, reflecting the changes in topography and soil wetness.

“The proposals include the diversification of two previously arable fields to create a wide range of micro-habitats, typical of an old woodland habitat.

“The long-term effect of creating the proposal will greatly improve the local biodiversity.

“The change of habitat will bring benefits to all forms of fauna and flora from invertebrates to birds and mammals and from lichens and mosses to wildflowers.

“Overall, there will be a significant positive impact from this proposal that will create a diverse habitat for recreational and conservation purposes. and allow us to improve water quality.”

The existing footpath will need to be closed temporarily while the work is carried out, with a diversion being advertised locally.

Wessex Water has not provided a time-scale for when the improvements will be implemented.