Residents, businesses, and visitors of Midsomer Norton are invited to share their views on an exciting new vision aimed at creating a vibrant and sustainable town centre. Bath & North East Somerset Council, in partnership with Midsomer Norton Town Council, has launched a public consultation for the IMAGINE Midsomer Norton Town Centre Masterplan. This ambitious plan outlines projects designed to enhance the heart of the town and foster long-term growth.
At the core of the masterplan are the historic former Midsomer Norton Brewery buildings and the surrounding retail zone. The plan also includes key town car parks on South Road and behind the Sainsbury’s supermarket, integrating these areas into the wider regeneration strategy.
Key projects involve restoring and reusing landmark buildings such as the former Bob’s Palais and Old Gas Works, revitalizing public spaces, and creating improved pedestrian links between the high street and the town park. The masterplan also proposes new housing and business developments, including the redevelopment of a private car park to deliver much-needed homes and commercial space right in the town centre.
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This masterplan builds on ideas gathered over the past year from local landowners, businesses, and the community—including input from the Shape Your High Street arts weekend where over 1,000 residents participated. It also continues the momentum generated by the Historic England-funded High Street Heritage Action Zone programme, which ran from 2020 to 2024.
The public consultation is open until October 30, with outdoor events at The Island on October 10 (11am–6pm) and October 11 (11am–3pm). Alongside masterplan details, attendees can learn about the Local Plan Options Consultation and take part in family-friendly creative activities as part of The Big Draw Festival.
Printed and accessible versions of the Masterplan will also be available at Midsomer Norton Library & Information Service.
Councillor Paul Roper, Cabinet Member for Economic and Cultural Sustainable Development, said, “This masterplan represents a major step towards creating a thriving, sustainable, and welcoming town centre for Midsomer Norton. It reflects the community’s aspirations and sets a clear path for future investment and regeneration. We encourage everyone to participate and share their views.”
Midsomer Norton Mayor Martyn Plant added, “This ambitious plan is shaped by the ideas and feedback from our residents and businesses. It is a unique chance to enhance the appearance and function of the town centre for the benefit of all. I strongly urge the community to review the plan and contribute their ideas.”
The project is supported by a £750,000 investment from the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority’s Housing and Regeneration Enabling Fund. This funding also supports high street regeneration initiatives in Keynsham, Radstock, and Twerton.
Mayor of the West of England, Helen Godwin, commented, “We want high streets across the West to flourish, including Midsomer Norton. By working closely with local councils and communities, we aim to deliver visible and meaningful change—restoring historic buildings, enhancing public areas, and ensuring the right homes are built in the right places.”