The squeaks of excitement could almost be heard when councillors heard that the possibility of taking on an envisaged ‘dormouse woodland’ in Wellington of just over one acre in size was actually a whopping 15 acres.

Wellington Town Council has been in discussion with developers CG Fry about taking on the woodland at the new Jurston Farm housing development.

Councillors heard last week that the council’s environment committee had met the developer last month where it was clarified that the area of woodland in question was six hectares in size and not 0.6 hectares as previously reported – about the same size as six international rugby pitches put together.

Town clerk Kathryn Hemensley in a report said: “This is therefore a considerable plot of woodland.”

Dormice have full protection under the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act

The council is keen on taking on the woodland although it has yet to fully thrash out the details with the developer.

Wellington Scout Group has already shown an interest in using the woodland for activities, while discussions have taken place about forming a Friends of the Dormouse Woodland Group.

Somerset Wildlife Trust is also keen to have an input in the woodland’s ongoing management.

Cllr Mark Lithgow said: “This is a very good opportunity to take on the land. Fifteen acres of land – there will be plenty of space for everybody. I’m a big believer in taking this on.”

Cllr Andrew Govier quipped that ‘these dormice have got it good’ with 15 acres of woodland.

Councillors agreed to continue discussions with CG Fry.