Official Launch for ‘Yeovil Refresh’ – Regeneration in Yeovil
Released On 1st Feb 2018
South Somerset District Council (SSDC) is hosting the official launch of 'Yeovil Refresh'.
In 2017, the Council embarked on an ambitious programme to explore how Yeovil town centre could adapt and become a place where people choose to work and shop, choose to spend their leisure time and, of course, choose to live.
Families, residents, businesses and shoppers are invited to learn more about the proposals, which will be presented in 6 Vicarage Walk, Quedam Shopping Centre,Yeovil, BA20 1EX.
There will be maps and information boards and the opportunity to ask questions of members of the project team. The aim will be to ensure benefits of the regeneration programme are clearly understood by the local community and to obtain feedback and views to inform development of the projects.
SSDC Director of Service Delivery, Martin Woods said: "This regeneration programme sets out a clear picture for how the town centre plans to develop, grow and flourish over the coming years. By working in partnership with Somerset County Council, other statutory agencies and the private sector, we can help turn the programme into a reality, to ensure that Yeovil can reach its full potential".
Yeovil Refresh sets out a clear vision for how the town centre aims to adapt over the coming years and incorporates a number of key regeneration proposals, including:
Redesign of the Bandstand area as a multi-purpose civic space for events and a focus for social and cultural activities
Re-development of the Box Factory as a residential development, which would substantially increase the numbers of people choosing to live in the town centre and help increase its vibrancy
A transportation assessment for the town centre
Some of the early actions will see an investment of over £500,000 from the Area South Committee reserves in to the development of the town.
Councillor Peter Gubbins, Chair of SSDC's Area South Committee said: "The future development of Yeovil, our principal market town, is a key priority for the Council. We are dedicated to working closely with our community to provide the necessary support to ensure that our urban centres and market towns continue to thrive and prosper".
Members of the business community, who know Yeovil so well, have played an active role in the development of the plans.
David Woan, President of Yeovil Chamber of Trade, said: "This economic development plan represents a significant commitment by South Somerset District Council to secure long-term prosperity for Yeovil and Yeovil Chamber are proud to be key stakeholders in the project.
"The nature of the 21st century UK high street is rapidly evolving and these plans embrace that change. Delivery will be a major step towards Yeovil becoming a go-to regional destination town."
