A popular tourist attraction on the edge of Exmoor could be improved in the coming months in a bid to attract for more visitors to rural Somerset.

Clatworthy Reservoir lies in the Brendon Hills, around five miles north of Wiveliscombe and just south of the Exmoor National Park.

The site, run by Wessex Water, is popular with walkers and anglers, and welcomes about 25,000 schoolchildren a year for outdoor lessons.

The company has now applied to Somerset West and Taunton Council to ‘make improvements to the visitor experience’ which will enable and encourage more people to use the space for recreation all year round.

Under the proposals, the entrance to the reservoir from Glass’s Rocks Lane will be enhanced, with improved parking, better signage for walkers and upgraded toilets.

The accessibility of the whole 130-acre site will be improved, including the five-mile perimeter walk around the reservoir itself.

New tables and benches will be provided for visitors, as well as a water refilling station to discourage single use plastic being brought onto the site.

Finally, new play areas and shelters will be installed on site to allow school groups and young children to play safety and study comfortably during trips.

A spokesman for Wessex Water said: “Set in beautiful surroundings and within areas of ecological and geological importance, it is vital that the reservoir is conserved while also accessed by local people and visitors.

“We want to educate current and future generations about the importance of the natural world, water resources and the benefits of leading healthy and active lifestyles.

“With improved facilities, organisations we currently partner with – such as local wildlife trusts and volunteer conservation groups – will be able to host their own events at the reservoir too.

“We aim to improve the users’ access, and so enhance the visitor experience on site, enabling a more diverse range of visitors through play equipment and accessible seating for those unable to go further around the site.”

The district council is expected to make a decision on the plans by the end of the year.

DANIEL MUMBY

Local democracy reporter