Residents, businesses, and visitors of Midsomer Norton are invited to contribute their views on an exciting new vision to rejuvenate the town centre. Bath & North East Somerset Council and Midsomer Norton Town Council have launched a public consultation on the IMAGINE Midsomer Norton Town Centre Masterplan—an ambitious strategy designed to invigorate the heart of the town.
At the core of the masterplan are the historic former Midsomer Norton Brewery buildings and surrounding retail spaces. The plan also includes the town’s main car parks on South Road and behind the Sainsbury’s supermarket, aiming to improve accessibility and connectivity.
Key projects include the restoration and adaptive reuse of notable historic sites, such as the former Bob’s Palais and the Old Gas Works, along with enhanced public spaces and pedestrian routes linking the high street to the town park. The plan further proposes new residential and commercial developments, including the transformation of a private car park into housing.
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This masterplan has been shaped by extensive collaboration with landowners, local businesses, and community members over the past year, highlighted by the Shape Your High Street arts weekend, which attracted 1,000 participants. It also builds upon the success of the Historic England-funded High Street Heritage Action Zone programme from 2020 to 2024.
The consultation is open until October 30, with an outdoor event scheduled at The Island on October 10 (11am–6pm) and October 11 (11am–3pm). Visitors can learn about the masterplan and the Local Plan Options Consultation, and participate in family-friendly and creative activities linked to The Big Draw Festival.
Printed and easy-to-read copies of the masterplan are available at Midsomer Norton Library & Information Service.
Councillor Paul Roper, Cabinet Member for Economic and Cultural Sustainable Development, commented, “This masterplan marks a crucial step toward a vibrant and welcoming town centre that aligns with our community’s aspirations. We encourage everyone to share their thoughts during the consultation.”
Mayor Martyn Plant added, “This ambitious initiative is built on the ideas and input of local residents and businesses, presenting a fantastic opportunity to improve the town centre’s appearance and functionality for all who live in or visit Midsomer Norton. I strongly urge the community to review the plan and contribute their ideas.”
The project benefits from £750,000 funding from the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority’s Housing and Regeneration Enabling Fund, supporting four high street regeneration action plans plus this masterplan in Bath & North East Somerset.
Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England, stated, “Our goal is for all the region’s high streets to flourish, including Midsomer Norton. With this quarter-of-a-million-pound investment, alongside efforts in Keynsham, Radstock, and Twerton, we’re partnering with local councils and residents to deliver meaningful, visible change—restoring historic buildings, enhancing public spaces, and building suitable housing where it’s needed.”