For sale, a wonderful piece of Midsomer history : With nature winning back an old mining site
By Susie Watkins
8th Apr 2021 | Local News
It is one of the most unusual local sales, and is truly a piece of history, although to see it today its industrial past has been beaten by natures forces.
Up for sale, land which was once the site of one of the busiest mines on the Somerset coalfield. Closed in 1973, Writhlington pit was also one of the most productive; in 1947 it was producing 37,250 tons of coal.
Now the land where the colliery once stood is up for sale with a guide price of £85,000.
The entire colliery site has been cleared and the wildlife has returned with stunning woodland, primarily made up of silver birch, alder and sycamore, but also rare orchids, and oaks and beech trees.
Set over around 20 acres, in addition to the woodland, the lucky buyer would be the new owner of two river bridges, a second world war
pillbox and a gun powder store. The top of the site for sale has been designated a geological site of special scientific interest (SSSI) - so that will mean it is protected from development - and is known for the discovery of some important arthropod fossils, including those of a dragonfly and damselfly. The SSSI designation will mean that any new owner will have to preserve the natural beauty of the area and any plans will have to be in keeping with its protected heritage. The owner of the land had planned to transform it into a community centre for forestry management and general wild life, but due to personal reasons she has been forced to move out of the area. However there is already a lot of interest, including discussions on social media about the possibility of creating a Community Interest Company to buy the land for everyone. Director Sam Chivers said: " It has been lovely speaking to so many interested buyers who want to preserve this lovely little part of Somerset's history. I really really want to try and get a local purchaser who will love this area like I do." To contact Sam Chivers about this sale or any local properties sales or rentals click HERE :the Sam Chivers site Or call them on 01761 411020.
New midsomernorton Jobs Section Launched!!
Vacancies updated hourly!!
Click here: midsomernorton jobs
Share:
