The Somerset Council recently confirmed that the Glovers Walk site redevelopment in Yeovil town center may not be completed until 2030. Demolition work is currently underway at the vacant shopping center on Middle Street, with a new temporary green space expected to be created in its place by the autumn. However, the delivery of new flats or commercial space may take up to five years to materialize. The redevelopment plan aims to gather opinions from local residents to shape the future use of the site.
The Local Democracy Reporting Service was granted access to the former shopping center as demolition work entered its main phase. The council disclosed that the contractors are set to conclude the demolition by the end of summer and transform the site into a green space for public use by September. The Yeovil bus station and its facilities will remain functional throughout the demolition process, and the council has initiated a study for potential improvements as part of its bus service improvement plan (BSIP).
Councillor Mike Rigby highlighted the opportunity for the community to contribute to the redevelopment proposal by sharing their expectations for the short and long term uses of the site. Yeovil MP Adam Dance also suggested utilizing the green space for major events such as Christmas markets, aiming to revitalize the town center.
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While the demolition work is expected to be completed by the end of summer, it may take several years for any long-term proposals to materialize. The council is collaborating with local groups to gather ideas for the short to medium-term use of the site before its redevelopment.
The council is working on initial proposals for the long-term future of the site, including securing a delivery partner to bring the scheme forward after obtaining planning permission. Additionally, progress is being made on three other sites within the town center, with construction and redevelopment initiatives already underway using the future high streets fund.