Join us for a CLA member visit to Wessex Water’s pioneering Durleigh Wetlands, a flagship nature-based project designed to improve water quality, enhance biodiversity, and restore natural river processes. Located near Durleigh Reservoir in Somerset, these innovative wetlands traps sediment from Durleigh Brook, slows water flow, reconnects the brook to its floodplain. The neighbouring integrated constructed wetland also delivers impressive environmental benefits, including a 30% reduction in suspended solids, 73% reduction in ammonia, and up to a 75% increase in biodiversity value

Members will have the opportunity to explore newly created habitats, including a restored 455-metre river channel, multiple sedimentation wetlands, and enhanced wildlife areas that support cleaner water entering the reservoir.

 

Visit Details

• Date: 16 June
• Meet: 9:30am
• Tour Start: 10:00am
• Duration: Approximately 2–3 hours (finishing between 12:30pm and 1:00pm)

 

What to Expect on the Visit

In summer, most of the paths are usually dry. Attendees will also have the chance to join a pond dip, looking for invertebrates and amphibians found across the wetland. Last summer, visitors enjoyed sightings of grass snakes, though these cannot be guaranteed.

Please note:
• This is an outdoor walking tour — suitable clothing and sturdy footwear are essential (wellie boots welcome to join the pond dip).
• If you have any disabilities, accessibility requirements, or mobility considerations, please let us know in advance so we can accommodate your needs.