The community came together at the weekend as Orchard Grove marked the official opening of its new Civic Square – the first dedicated public space created for residents to gather and enjoy. The family friendly event marked a milestone moment in the growth of the Taunton development. Designed as a central gathering place, the Civic Square welcomed residents, local dignitaries and community groups for an afternoon of celebration in the sunshine.
Orchard Grove is a 2,000-home garden community being delivered by a Consortium of leading housebuilders, comprised of Vistry Group – which includes Bovis Homes and Linden Homes, working in partnership with South West housing association, LiveWest – and Taylor Wimpey.
Plenty to celebrate
The event took place on Saturday 11th July and was attended by hundreds of residents as well as local dignitaries who helped mark the occasion, including the Deputy Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset, Sheila Wheeler; MP for Taunton and Wellington, Gideon Amos; and Somerset Council Councillors Habib Farbahi, Dawn Johnson and John Hunt. Jon and Imogen Ball, Ministers from Orchard Grove Church, were also among the community groups present.
There was much fun in the sun, with plenty to enjoy throughout the day, including children’s nature-themed crafts – among them colouring, wildlife mask making, and bug hotel decorating – giant garden games laid out on the grass, and free wildflower seed packet giveaways. With over 100 acres of green space planned for this community, nature was central to the theme of the day.
Live performances from Rue – a talented South West singer-songwriter – and an energetic showcase from the MAD Community CIC dance group, added to the celebratory atmosphere. Refreshments were provided by local independents, The Luxe Lolly Co and Malton’s Drinks Company. The first 100 ice lollies and drinks were given away free, with families quick to make most of the offer. Amica Care, operators of the new Greenlands Meadow care home being built at Orchard Grove, also hosted a stall with crafts, face painting, lucky dip toy giveaway, and free cake.
Designed with community in mind
The Civic Square is located towards the top of Egremont Road – the main ‘spine’ road leading down from the top of the development. It is a landscaped green space, with tree-lined pathways, and a uniquely carved bench that is a real feature and focal point within the space. A new path links the square directly to the Park & Bus transport hub, helping to build a network of connected public spaces.
This is one of several carefully planned community spaces across Orchard Grove, giving residents and visitors a place to gather, relax, and connect. Located by the employment area at the top of the site, near the care home and future business premises, the Civic Square is intended to become a dynamic space for residents, visitors, and those working in the area.
Joanna Barraclough, Regional Sales and Marketing Director at Vistry, part of the Orchard Grove Consortium, said: “The opening of the Civic Square is a fantastic milestone for Orchard Grove – it’s the very first dedicated public meeting space within the development and it was wonderful to see so many people come together to celebrate. This square will be at the heart of the community, and we hope it’s a place residents use and enjoy for many years to come. It reflects Orchard Grove’s broader commitment to creating sustainable, well-integrated community spaces where community life can flourish.”
Gideon Amos, MP for Taunton and Wellington, said: “As an architect by background, I know how much a well-designed public space can do for a community – it’s not just about buildings, but about creating places where people genuinely want to spend time together. The Civic Square is a brilliant addition to Orchard Grove, and it was a pleasure to join residents to celebrate its opening.
“The church in the area, and local councillors Dawn Johnson and Habib Farbahi are all working to get the best community facilities possible for Orchard Grove. I’ll do everything I can to champion the needs of growing communities like this, Taunton’s newest neighbourhood, and I look forward to seeing this square become a real focal point for local life.”
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