Over the past decade, the term ‘regeneration’ has carried significant weight in Somerset, as millions of pounds in government funding have flowed into the county to breathe new life into town centres, repurpose historic buildings, and enhance living and working environments.
Despite some setbacks—including delays with the Yeovil Refresh, slow progress at Taunton’s Firepool site, and controversy over Bridgwater’s Celebration Mile design—several high-profile regeneration projects backed by government funds are poised to make substantial progress in 2026. These initiatives complement major transport schemes planned for the same period.
It’s important to note that the ring-fenced nature of these funds means the money cannot be redirected toward other local needs like road repairs, social care, or council housing.
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Here are five key projects to watch as Somerset moves into 2026:
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Northgate Docks, Bridgwater
A focal point of Bridgwater’s town centre, Northgate Docks connects to both the Celebration Mile and Bridgwater and Taunton Canal. After extensive design development and negotiations with Bridgwater Town Council and the Canal and River Trust, formal plans for a £5.2 million regeneration were unveiled in late 2025. The scheme includes 33 new residential and leisure moorings, a new swing bridge replacing Newton Lock bridge, a dedicated cycle lane linking to Linham Way, and improved crossings on Anson Way. The council aims for planning permission by late spring 2026, with construction to follow swiftly before the funding deadline in March 2027.
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Bridgwater Health and Social Care Academy
Capitalizing on nearly £20 million from the Levelling Up Fund, this project will convert the former Salmon Parade community hospital into a cutting-edge training hub for health and social care professionals. Earlier investments established a satellite facility in Minehead. Detailed plans for the main academy were submitted in October 2025, with construction potentially starting in summer 2026. Coordination with the evolving Celebration Mile layout remains critical to ensure smooth progress.
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Tonedale Mill and Tone Works, Wellington
Securing nearly £20 million in the Levelling Up Fund’s final round, Wellington aims to rejuvenate the historic Fox Brothers textile sites, which have long suffered poor upkeep. With £3.7 million earmarked for initial improvements at Tone Works, the project is currently under review, with further plans expected by April 2025. Public funds will be deployed carefully to maximize impact, with activity anticipated to pick up in 2026 ahead of the April 2027 funding deadline.
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Glovers Walk, Yeovil
Yeovil’s town centre transformation continues with the demolition of the old Glovers Walk shopping centre, funded by £5 million from the Future High Streets Fund. The council’s new masterplan envisions a vibrant mixed-use development featuring residential units, commercial space, a new NHS health hub, and potentially a hotel above the bus station. The plan, which has stirred some local debate over car park development, will be reviewed in February 2026. Pending approval, formal applications and construction could advance rapidly. Meanwhile, the cleared site will serve as a green space for events and pop-up businesses.
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Octagon Theatre, Yeovil
Facing inflation and material cost pressures, the original £30 million Octagon Theatre redevelopment was scaled back to £15 million with a narrowed scope. Funding sources include £10 million from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, £3.75 million from Yeovil Town Council, and £1.25 million from local fundraising and developer contributions. Maintaining the closed venue costs the council approximately £140,000 annually. A revised planning application was submitted in December 2025, with potential work commencing in late summer or autumn 2026 contingent on approval.
These projects will be outlined in Somerset Council’s capital programme ahead of the annual budget decision on February 27, 2026, marking a pivotal year for Somerset’s regeneration journey.