Exciting plans are underway to further protect the historic Somerset Levels and Moors, with a new wetland project set to improve water quality and create even more space for wildlife.
What’s happening?
Wessex Water has unveiled multi-million pound plans to create new wetland habitats on more than 25 hectares of land within the Somerset Levels and Moors, next door to our Shapwick Moor Nature Reserve, between Bridgwater and Glastonbury.
The two-part site would see the creation of an integrated constructed wetland and a new grassland site, with the ambition for this land to become a haven for wildlife under the stewardship of the Hawk and Owl Trust within the Somerset Wetlands National Nature Reserve.
What is an Integrated Constructed Wetland?
This natural water treatment system will use wetland plants to filter and clean river water before it reaches local rivers and streams. By reducing harmful nutrients - which can come from agricultural fertilisers, farm slurries, septic tank discharges and domestic wastewater – the project will help protect the delicate balance of the Somerset Levels, a landscape rich in birdlife and biodiversity.
Unlike constructed wetlands, Integrated Constructed Wetlands are designed to also integrate into the surrounding environment and can provide added benefits such as regulating water flow and enhancing biodiversity, wildlife habitats and space for recreation.
Where does the Hawk and Owl Trust fit into all of this?
Working in partnership with Wessex Water, the Hawk and Owl Trust has been involved in this project for several years, helping to shape plans that will benefit nature and people alike.
As the closest neighbours, Hawk and Owl Trust land will be used to provide construction access.
We are also in discussions with Wessex Water about a long-term lease to incorporate the wetland and grassland into our nature reserve once the project is complete.
What does it mean for our conservation work?
At Shapwick Moor, we already carry out extensive monitoring of water quality and biodiversity, helping us understand how changes in the environment affect local wildlife. This new wetland will allow us to expand our work, collecting even more valuable data on how natural solutions can improve water health and support species like otters, dragonflies, and wetland birds.
What does it mean for visitors to Shapwick Moor?
This project will also provide an opportunity to improve visitor facilities at Shapwick. While plans are still in development, we hope to introduce new bird and badger hides, as well as an outdoor amphitheatre for educational activities. These additions will enhance the experience for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and local school groups, offering more ways to connect with the stunning wildlife of the Somerset Levels.
What’s next?
The project is currently awaiting planning approval from Somerset Council. If permission is granted, construction is expected to begin in summer 2026 and take around six months to complete. We will continue working closely with Wessex Water and other partners to ensure this wetland not only improves water quality but also benefits the local ecosystem and our visitors.
This is a fantastic example of how conservation and responsible land management can work together to protect and enhance our natural landscapes.
We look forward to sharing more updates on our website and our Facebook and Instagram pages as the project progresses.
For more information, visit: www.wessexwater.co.uk/somerset-wetland
