Glastonbury residents now have improved access to local sports facilities, thanks to ongoing regeneration efforts in the town. As part of the government’s towns fund, Glastonbury has received £23.6m to enhance the town center and boost its prospects. One of the key projects, the Roberts Richards initiative, focuses on promoting sustainability through new multi-use paths, green infrastructure, and training courses offered in collaboration with the Open University and Strode College. The recently opened section of the new path makes it easier for residents living on Benedict Street and further north to reach public open spaces and the various facilities at Tor Sports and Leisure Centre, which is also set to undergo upgrades as part of a separate project.
Town deal program manager Jane Sharp and Somerset Council deputy leader Liz Leyshon led a tour of the paths, showcasing the enhanced accessibility for residents and visitors. Designed for pedestrians, cyclists, and wheelchair users, the path offers a safer and more convenient route to the leisure center and facilities in the southern part of Glastonbury, including the Morrisons supermarket.
With an emphasis on promoting active travel and reducing reliance on cars, the initiative also aims to link various projects and areas, such as the Beckery area, to facilitate seamless movement within the town. These efforts align with feedback gathered during consultations, emphasizing the community’s desire for improved accessibility, particularly for those with prams or wheelchairs.
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While the total cost of the Roberts Richards initiative is projected to be £2.4m under the town deal budget, the paths have been delivered cost-effectively in collaboration with Greenways and Cycle Routes, known for creating active travel routes in rural areas. Moreover, the ring-fenced funding from the town deal is dedicated exclusively to Glastonbury’s regeneration, ensuring that it cannot be diverted to other areas or used for the council’s daily operational expenses.
Highlighting the significance of the paths in promoting health and well-being, Council deputy leader Liz Leyshon emphasized the crucial role of nurturing the local workforce in fostering the town’s economic resilience. The environmentally conscious approach to the path construction, with minimal disruption to the natural surroundings, reflects a commitment to preserving Glastonbury’s unique environment while enhancing accessibility for all residents.
The Glastonbury town deal also prioritizes sustainability, emphasizing the use of less invasive construction methods for restoring historic buildings and developing new infrastructure. This meticulous approach aims to honor the community’s cherished heritage while meeting contemporary needs and standards. Furthermore, the town’s rivalry with Bridgwater in completing regeneration projects reflects a healthy competition and a shared commitment to progress.
As Glastonbury progresses with its ambitious town deal, completing various projects within the allocated time frame remains a top priority. The forthcoming refurbishment of the Tor Sports and Leisure Centre, the development of a new piazza near Glastonbury Abbey, and initiatives such as the health and well-being hub at St. Dunstan’s House and the regeneration of Baily’s Buildings reflect the diverse facets of the town’s regeneration efforts.
For further details on the Glastonbury town deal projects, visit www.glastonburytowndeal.co.uk.