The ambitious regeneration of Bridgwater’s historic Northgate Docks has been likened to “removing asbestos” due to unforeseen challenges beneath the surface. With £5.2 million allocated from the government-funded Bridgwater Town Deal, the project aims to revive the docks located at the northern end of the town’s Celebration Mile, connecting the River Parrett to the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal.
Despite early public consultation in December 2023, tangible progress has been limited as other local regeneration efforts took priority. In April, Somerset Council appointed design consultants WSP to accelerate the scheme, focusing on securing planning permission and starting construction by spring 2026.
Richard Brown, Somerset Council’s lead regeneration specialist, recently updated the harbour management advisory committee with new details on the project. A significant portion—£1 million—is dedicated to enhancing walking and cycling infrastructure. A shared-use pathway will be created along the northern dock edge, linking to the Linham Road cycle link and extending toward the A39 Western Way and River Parrett route. This will include a new swing bridge replacing the temporary Newton Lock bridge, improving access for pedestrians and cyclists.
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However, addressing the docks’ infrastructure is proving complex. Brown explained that refurbishment of the existing lock gates at Newton Lock is unfeasible due to approximately three metres of silt accumulation, making even new gates ineffective without extensive dredging. The existing bascule bridge forming part of Northgate will be repaired and repainted, complementing plans to reintroduce residential and leisure moorings, though the marina’s boat capacity has been scaled back from 60 to 33 narrowboats.
Local councillor Leigh Redman, representing Bridgwater North and Central, welcomed the safer crossing over Anson Way and the improved pedestrian and cycling routes. Yet, he cautioned about hidden costs and liabilities, drawing parallels between the redevelopment and asbestos removal: “Until you lift the tiles, you don’t know what’s underneath.” He expressed concern over potential expenses if unforeseen dock infrastructure issues arise and the condition inherited from previous management by Canal and River Trust.
Following an extension granted by the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government, the project’s contract deadline is now mid-2027. Upon completion, responsibility for dock maintenance will transition to Bridgwater Town Council. The formal planning application is expected to be submitted shortly after Christmas, setting the stage for a long-awaited transformation of this historic gateway.