The Tufa Field is home to many protected species of plant and animals. September 2020, during pre-development ‘ecology’ work, saw the wilful destruction of much of the margins of the Tufa Field and brought about the death of many Slow Worms and much of the regionally important tufa flushes.

 supported housing scheme

While this caused an outcry from residents and conservationists alike {and made national headlines and a police investigation), Bath and North East Somerset Council were unable to assign fault or even responsibility. This was the start of the fight to save this vitally important green space.

Update: August 2024. Breeding populations of Slow Worms have been identified, although these may be destroyed by plans for the supported housing scheme.