Residents of Taunton have just a few days remaining to share their ideas on what community facilities should be included in the new town centre transport hub. Somerset Council has secured £2.7 million from the Department for Transport (DfT) to replace the outdated Tower Street bus station, which has been closed since March 2020. This new hub will serve buses and coaches as part of the council’s multi-year Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP).
Following an initial consultation in summer 2024, construction is slated to begin later this year, aiming for the hub to be operational by spring 2026. Notably, Taunton Town Council plans to take responsibility for two buildings within the hub to provide a waiting room along with other community facilities. Residents and bus users must submit their preferences by Sunday, June 8.
Emily Glover, the town council’s project lead, spoke at a drop-in event held at Taunton Library on June 4. She explained, “The two vacant buildings on the bus station site are proposed to be managed by the town council. We are seeking public input on how these spaces can best serve the community.”
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She added, “This initiative focuses on community features separate from the operational transport elements. While a waiting room and public restrooms are necessary, we welcome all suggestions on additional uses.”
Both buildings feature two floors, offering ample space for multiple purposes. However, as neither building is fully accessible, installing lifts will be essential to open up the upper floors to public use. Funding for these improvements is expected to come from external grants and contributions from housing developers, avoiding increases in local council tax.
Looking ahead, Ms. Glover outlined the process: “We will develop a concept design based on consultation feedback and present it to the town council committee in July. Full design will follow, with an aim to have facilities becoming operational next year, though exact timelines depend on committee approvals.”
To provide your suggestions, visit www.taunton-tc.gov.uk/the-council/governance-democracy/public-consultations or call 01823 793637 before June 8.