Somerset Council is inviting residents to shape the future of Yeovil through its new Town Centre Masterplan consultation. This ambitious plan aims to revitalize the heart of Yeovil by creating a more pedestrian-friendly environment, enhancing housing options, and fostering a dynamic cultural scene.
Recent investments from the government’s Future High Street Fund have already sparked initial changes. Central streets have been redesigned to encourage walking, and the demolition of Glovers Walk has cleared the way for new developments. Now, the Masterplan highlights four key sites as catalysts for regeneration, focusing on sustainable growth and improved connectivity with nearby towns and villages.
Priority development sites include Glovers Walk, the Bus Station, and Earle Street car park. Residents are encouraged to rank three additional sites for future projects: North Lane and Court Ash car parks, Glovers Quarter South (former Wilko store), and the South Street, Star Lane, and Box Factory car park area.
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The consultation also seeks public input on critical aspects such as affordable housing, green spaces, cycling and walking infrastructure, public transport, nightlife options including bars and cinemas, and overall safety within the town centre.
Councillor Mike Rigby, Lead Member for Economic Development, Planning and Assets, stressed the importance of community involvement: “This is a unique opportunity for people to influence Yeovil’s transformation into a thriving, vibrant town with a strong economic future. The Masterplan will guide regeneration efforts not only in the town centre but across the wider urban area.”
Somerset Council’s vision for Yeovil by 2040 is a town defined by the fusion of arts and high-tech innovation. The Masterplan’s objectives include:
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Enhancing the town centre’s role in serving residents’ needs by supporting everyday life through housing, shops, services, leisure, and community spaces.
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Facilitating increased housing within the town centre across diverse sites to promote varied and sustainable development.
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Activating the town centre through vibrant cultural events, markets, pop-ups, and other initiatives that energize the area.
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Identifying viable and deliverable development projects that can be realistically funded and completed to ensure lasting improvements.
With this comprehensive approach, Somerset Council aims to cultivate a thriving, family-friendly Yeovil that balances modern living with a rich cultural atmosphere.